The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved updated COVID-19 vaccines developed by Pfizer, Moderna, and Novavax, but has imposed new limitations on their usage. While seniors retain full access, younger adults and children will now need to demonstrate at least one high-risk health condition—such as asthma or obesity—to qualify for vaccination, significantly narrowing eligibility.

Additionally, the FDA has revoked the emergency use authorisation for Pfizer’s vaccine in children under five. The only remaining option for this age group is Moderna’s Spikevax, which now holds full FDA approval but is only authorised for those with specific medical vulnerabilities.

The newly authorised vaccines target the latest coronavirus variant and are being distributed immediately. However, widespread access will depend on decisions by federal health advisers, private insurers, pharmacies, and state health authorities, with implementation details expected in the coming weeks.

Despite the easing of the health crisis, the updated rollout marks a shift from prior policy. The previous recommendation supported annual vaccination for all Americans aged six months and older. Now, the narrowed criteria may hinder convenient access for healthy individuals and raise logistical and coverage challenges.