GOP lawmakers ask FDA for answers in Pfizer COVID-19 booster approval process for children: ‘Quite troubling’

FIRST ON FOX: GOP lawmakers on Tuesday asked the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for answers as to why the top agency did not rely on its typical committee approval process before authorizing a third Pfizer COVID shot for children ages 12-15.

In a letter to FDA Acting Commissioner Janet Woodcock, more than two dozen Republicans in the House and Senate questioned the decision by the administration to forego the approval of the booster shot by the Vaccines and Related Biological Products Advisory Committee (VRBPAC).

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“This is extremely puzzling and, frankly, quite troubling,” the lawmakers, led by Texas Sen. Ted Cruz and Rep. Chip Roy wrote. “Children are still growing and developing, and these are relevant factors for consideration to ensure that this additional vaccine dosage is appropriate, especially as early teens in the 12 to 15 age group are at extremely low-risk for death and hospitalization from COVID-19.”

The VRBPAC voted in September 2021 to authorize a third Pfizer shot for adults 18 years and older who had already received the first two rounds of vaccine shots at least six months prior. The committee then voted to authorize the additional Moderna booster in October 2021. But the committee does not appear to have approved such authorization for Pfizer booster shot for children, despite granting FDA approval on Jan. 3.

The group of Republicans argued that uncertainties surrounding the vaccine remain when it comes to children getting the jab.

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7 year-old receives his COVID-19 vaccination at the Salt Lake County Health Department Wednesday, Nov. 3, 2021, in Salt Lake City.

The…