JAKARTA - Vaccine manufacturer COVID-19 Moderna is awaiting approval from the European Union medical regulator, regarding the provision of COVID-19 vaccines for children.
The vaccine available in Europe is currently intended for ages 18 and over. However, not long ago Moderna called their vaccine 96 percent effective for children aged 12-17 years.
Moderna Chief Executive Stephane Bancel told French newspaper Le Journal Du Dimanche the company would submit its own application to the European Medicines Agency (EMA) next month.
"The ideal result is that children in countries like France will be vaccinated on Aug. If we do not vaccinate massively, the risk of the fourth wave cannot be ruled out," he told Euronews on Monday, May 24.
Moderna's trial results showed 96 percent efficacy in research involving more than 3,200 young people. There are no serious side effects, although some children suffer from headaches, chills and fatigue after the second dose.
In addition, Moderna runs separate trials even for younger children, aged between six months and 12 years. Participants in the trial were given their first dose in March and scientists have yet to report the results.
Separately, the Head of the World Health Organization (WHO) said this month, rich countries should donate spare doses to the global COVAX scheme, rather than giving them to children.
"I understand why some countries want to vaccinate their children and adolescents. But now I encourage them to reconsider and instead donate the vaccine to COVAX," said Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.
This comment comes after Pfizer's vaccine was approved for children aged 12 to 15 by the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Meanwhile, in Europe this vaccine has not received EMA approval.
The EMA said it hoped to issue a decision on the use of Pfizer vaccines for children in Europe next month.
Please note, the Pfizer vaccine is currently available for ages over 16 in Europe. Meanwhile, the Moderna, Johnson &Johnson and AstraZeneca vaccines have been approved for ages over 18.
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