During a recent Q&A, a representative with the World Health Organization warned that the Omicron variant is not the last of its kind. Dr. Maria Van Kerkhove explained that the next variant is likely to be more transmissible and could be more deadly than any of the previous variants. Although receiving the COVID-19 vaccine remains one of the best ways to combat the severity of one’s symptoms, Dr. Van Kerkhove warned that the vaccine could become less effective as the virus continues to evolve.
On the topic of the COVID-19 vaccine, the FDA announced today, February 11, 2022, that it was postponing an upcoming vaccine committee meeting in order to analyze new data concerning vaccine administration for children under the age of five. Specifically, Dr. Janet Woodcock and Dr. Peter Marks stated that an ongoing clinical trial revealed new information about administering a third dose to that age range. They stated that “the best way to protect children, including when they are at school or daycare, is to practice social distancing and masking in accordance with public health recommendations, and for their family members and caregivers to get vaccine or receive a booster dose when eligible.”
Norton Rose Fulbright lawyers will continue to provide relevant updates for healthcare providers on the Health Law Pulse during the COVID-19 public health crisis.