Pfizer Vaccine Arrives in California, Moderna Vaccine Secures EUA

Following the issuance of an emergency use authorization (EUA) by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) late last week, the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine has begun arriving at dispensing points nationwide, including in California. Over the past weekend, the Western States Scientific Review Workgroup confirmed the Pfizer vaccine is safe and efficacious for distribution in California, Nevada, Oregon, and Washington.

Late today, the FDA similarly issued an EUA for the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine following a recommendation by the FDA Vaccines and Related Biological Products Advisory Committee (VRBPAC) on Thursday. The VRBPAC, on a 20-0 vote with one abstention, advised the FDA to issue an EUA, the second such authorization for a COVID-19 vaccine.

The Western States Scientific Review Workgroup is expected to review safety and effectiveness data from the Moderna clinical trial within days, clearing the way for the administration of the Moderna vaccine in California. Nationwide distribution of the Moderna vaccine is anticipated to begin over the coming days.