- Pfizer and BioNTech announced Thursday they are developing a Covid-19 booster shot intended to target the delta variant.
- Clinical studies could begin as early as August, subject to regulatory approvals.
- Executives from Pfizer and BioNtech have repeatedly said people will likely need a booster shot, or third dose, within 12 months of getting fully vaccinated.
Pfizer Inc. and BioNTech SE announced that they are in the process of developing a booster shot for their coronavirus vaccine that will specifically target the Delta variant of the virus. The companies noted that they remain certain that a third jab of their existing vaccine would be enough to provide extra protection against the Delta variant, but stated that they are developing an updated version of the vaccine just for that variant in order to “remain vigilant.” Lastly, the pharmaceutical firms said that, following real-world evidence released by Israeli health authorities, vaccine efficacy declines after six months. Therefore, they concluded that, based on the current data, a third dose may be needed “within six to 12 months after full vaccination.”