U.S. FDA authorises 'mix and match' COVID-19 vaccine; backs Moderna, J&J boosters

The latest moves would expand by tens of millions the number of Americans eligible for boosters and formally allow “mixing and matching” of shots

U.S. regulators on October 20 signed off on extending boosters to Americans who got the or and said anyone eligible for an extra dose can get a brand different from the one they received initially.

The Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA’s) decisions mark a big step toward expanding the , which began with extra doses of the Pfizer vaccine last month. But before more people roll up their sleeves, the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention will consult an expert panel later this week before finalising official recommendations for who should get boosters and when.

The latest moves would expand by tens of millions the number of Americans eligible for boosters and formally allow “mixing and matching” of shots — making it simpler to get another dose, especially for people who had a side effect from one brand but still want the proven protection of vaccination.