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In this article:
- The Novavax vaccine for COVID-19 has been granted Emergency Use Authorization by the FDA. The CDC endorsed the FDA's recommendation for the Novavax to be used as another COVID-19 vaccine option for people ages 18 and older.
- The vaccine has also been approved by the Western States Scientific Review Workgroup and the Washington State Department of Health.
- The technology in the vaccine has been used for decades in many familiar vaccines, including those for Influenza B, Hepatitis B and shingles.
On July 13, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced it had granted Emergency Use Authorization for Novavax, the fourth COVID-19 vaccine made available in the U.S, for use in adults, ages 18 and older. On July 19, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) endorsed the CDC Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices’ (ACIP) recommendation that Novavax’s COVID-19 vaccine be used as another primary series option—along with the Pfizer-BioNtech and Moderna vaccines—for adults ages 18 an older.
Last week, the Western States Scientific Review Workgroup, an independent panel of experts, affirmed the safety of the Novavax vaccine and the FDA and ACIP recommendations for its use in adults. The Novavax vaccine has also been approved by the Washington State Department of Health.
Like other COVID-19 vaccines available today, health authorities have determined that the benefits of Novavax strongly outweigh any known risks. In a clinical trial, Novavax was shown to be more than 90% effective in preventing mild, moderate or severe COVID-19. The vaccine will continue to be studied for ongoing safety and efficacy data. Novavax has been in use in Europe since December 2021.
The technology behind Novavax has been in use for decades in many familiar vaccines such as Influenza B, Hepatitis B, HPV, whooping cough, pneumococcal disease and shingles. It is known as a subunit adjuvanted vaccine, which uses harmless proteins to prompt your body to create an immune response. Side effects are similar to those reported from other COVID-19 vaccines.
Vaccination continues to be our most useful tool in stopping COVID-19
The CDC reports that 67.2% of the U.S. population is fully vaccinated, which means that many people may still have questions about whether the COVID vaccine is right for them. Caregivers and providers can use these new developments as an opportunity to engage in compassionate, empathetic conversations about the vaccines with patients, friends and others who may have questions. Vaccination remains the best public health measure to stop the virus from spreading and mutating into other new variants.
When will the Novavax vaccine become available?
The current supply of Novavax vaccine in Washington state is extremely limited. We will continue to provide updates as they become available. If you or your family members need COVID-19 vaccinations, make an appointment through your Swedish provider, call the Washington State Department of Health at 800-525-0127 or find a vaccination site near you.
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Additional resources
COVID-19 vaccines: FDA approval, third dose for immunocompromised and boosters
Questions about the COVID vaccine for kids? Swedish has some answers for you.
COVID vaccines for kids under 5: A Swedish expert answers questions
This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical care. Always follow your healthcare professional’s instructions.
