CASPER, WYOMING (August 25, 2021) – After months of research, data collection and millions of doses administered, the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccination has been fully approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for all individuals 16 and older as a safe and effective protection against COVID-19.
Natrona County administered its Pfizer COVID-19 vaccination Dec. 16, just days after it was authorized for emergency used by the FDA. Since then, more than 30,000 Natrona County residents have safely received vaccinations.
“While many of us have already safely received vaccinations, we recognize that for some, this new approval may be assurance they needed to get vaccinated,” Casper-Natrona County Health Department (CNCHD) Public Information Officer Hailey Bloom said.
In the FDA’s review for approval, the agency analyzed effectiveness data from approximately 20,000 vaccine and 20,000 placebo recipients ages 16 and over. The trials yielded a 91% effectiveness in preventing COVID-19. Safety was evaluated in approximately 22,000 individuals in a vaccinated group and 22,000 in a placebo group. Most side effects included pain, redness or swelling at the injection as well as flu-like symptoms including fatigue, headache or fever. These symptoms typically subside within 24 hours. The FDA and Centers for Disease Control have monitoring systems in place to identify and evaluate any safety concerns moving forward. Use in children ages 12-15 continues to be emergency use authorization, but full approval for this group is underway. Read the official statement from the FDA.
Moderna applied for full approval for its vaccination in June 2021, less than a month after Pfizer. The FDA is expected to make an approval decision on Moderna in the coming weeks.
The CNCHD is currently administering Pfizer, Moderna and Johnson & Johnson vaccines on walkin basis or with an appointment by calling 307.577.9892. All vaccines are free to individuals.
“This is the single most critically examined vaccine in human history, and it’s not an understatement to call it a modern miracle. This new approval verifies the safety and efficacy of the vaccine, and it’s the single best way to protect against all COVID, including the dangerous delta variant,” Bloom said.
To learn more, visit CasperVCovid.com