ISLAMABAD: In January 2024, Pakistan is anticipated to receive 500,000 doses of Pfizer’s new COVID-19 vaccine (2023-24 formula) amid the global surge in cases, mainly due to the spread of the new JN.1 variant.
These doses are intended for vaccination of high-risk groups, including pilgrims preparing for the Hajj pilgrimage. Before administering the newly developed Pfizer vaccine in Pakistan, authorities must obtain a fresh Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) from the Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan (DRAP).
It’s worth noting that the Pfizer vaccine has not yet received full approval or licensing from the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) but has been authorized for emergency use.
An official from the National Institute of Health (NIH) in Islamabad explained that Pakistan is set to receive 200,000 doses directly from the U.S. and an additional 300,000 doses from COVAX, an international initiative for global vaccine distribution.
The new formula is reported to be effective against circulating variants, including Omicron and its sub-variants.
Amid a 52% increase in new COVID-19 cases from November 20 to December 17, 2023, the WHO declared the JN.1 sub-variant of Omicron as a Variant of Interest. While the sub-variant has not been detected in Pakistan, authorities aim to prevent its potential spread among pilgrims.
Officials believe Saudi authorities may require vaccination with the new Pfizer vaccine or other FDA-authorized vaccines for Hajj pilgrims. Notably, existing vaccine stocks in Pakistan are expected to expire by November 2023.
To use Pfizer’s newly developed vaccine, Pakistani authorities must secure Emergency Use Authorization from DRAP, which acknowledges the FDA’s EUA. The official clarified that a formal request and FDA certification would be required for this process, and various entities, including NIH, FDI, or Pfizer’s local representative, could submit the request.
Addressing the vaccine use for children aged six months to 11 years, the official asserted that a vaccine suitable for this age group would also be effective for adults. However, special consideration is given to those below 12 years old due to the sensitivity of their evolving immune systems.
