FDA authorizes Pfizer's COVID-19 booster for 12- to 15-year-olds, CDC still must decide to recommend

The FDA on Monday it will allow extra Pfizer shots for children as young as 12, as the U.S. expands efforts to slow the surge of COVID-19's highly-contagious omicron varient.

Boosters were already are recommended for those 16 and older, but federal regulators decided they’re also OK for 12- to 15-year-olds after enough time passes from their earlier dose or doses, depend on which one they received, according to the Associated Press.

However, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention must decide whether to recommend boosters for the younger teens. Dr. Rochelle Walensky, the CDC’s director, is expected to rule later this week.