Pfizer and BioNTech Launch New Omicron-Specific COVID-19 Vaccine for Ages 12 and Up on September 19

Pfizer and BioNTech to Release New COVID-19 Vaccine Targeting Omicron Variant JN.1 for Ages 12 and Up on September 19

Published Date: 2024/09/19 04:50

Pfizer and BioNTech will launch the new COVID-19 vaccine, Comirnaty, which is adapted for the Omicron variant JN.1 and aimed at individuals aged 12 and older, on September 19. This vaccine will be distributed for routine vaccinations starting from October 1, as well as for voluntary vaccinations for those not targeted by routine vaccination. The vaccines for ages 5-11 and 6 months to 4 years, which were approved on August 8 along with the one for ages 12 and up, are “currently in preparation for release.”

The vaccine for ages 12 and up is provided in a pre-filled syringe format, eliminating the need for thawing, dilution, or filling processes. It can be refrigerated at 2-8°C and has a shelf life of 8 months. Upon administration, it needs to be brought back to room temperature, and can be injected immediately after attaching the needle. Additionally, to prevent errors in vaccination, the product name and administration method will be labeled on the syringe, facilitating identification from other vaccines.

Furthermore, the Omicron XBB.1.5 variant-targeting COVID-19 vaccine, Comirnaty RTU for single use, released in May, will cease sales with the start of shipping for the JN.1 variant-targeted vaccine for ages 12 and up on the 19th. This decision is based on the Ministry of Health’s policy indicating that the XBB-targeted monovalent vaccine will not be eligible for public funding in the 2024/2025 vaccination season.

Yoko Fujimoto, Executive Officer and Head of the Vaccine Division at the company, commented, “In recent years, there has been a tendency for COVID-19 infections to increase during the summer and autumn-winter periods. Many symptoms following infection are still not fully understood, and as the virus continues to mutate, vaccination tailored to these variants, alongside basic infection prevention measures, is necessary.” She also noted that more than 300 million doses of Comirnaty have been provided in Japan thus far, stating, “Leveraging this experience, we will continue to collaborate with medical institutions and related academic societies to promote appropriate vaccine use and supply vaccines that meet the needs of healthcare settings.”