HELP Ranking Member Burr Statement on FDA Approval of Pfizer Booster Shot for Some Americans

Today, Senator Richard Burr (R-NC), Ranking Member of the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee, released the following statement on the U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s announcement issuing an Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) for booster shots of Pfizer’s COVID-19 vaccine for high-risk individuals and those over 65:

“The FDA’s decision to allow booster shots for vaccinated Americans at highest risk for severe illness or death from COVID-19 is very welcome news, and I am glad to see the United States catching up to other countries and acting on the available science. Vaccines are still the single most important tool we have to save lives and bring an end to this pandemic. Over the last few months, data from Israel and other sources have made it clear that while the Pfizer vaccine is still highly effective, booster shots can help bolster protection over time, which is critical in the midst of the surging delta variant. I’d encourage every American who is eligible for a booster shot to get one without delay.

“As the FDA continues to monitor the emerging data, I look forward to seeing the agency’s ongoing assessment of whether booster shots may become necessary for all Americans. I trust they will continue to closely follow the science, and swiftly make decisions based on the facts rather than political concerns.”

Earlier today, Senator Burr led a group of Senate leaders in a letter calling on White House Coronavirus Response Coordinator Jeffrey Zients to release an updated strategy to more effectively leverage vaccines and end the pandemic. You can read the full letter here.