FDA Approves Protein-Based COVID-19 Vaccine, With Restrictions

The shot is the country’s only traditional vaccine for coronavirus.

Four vials with the "Nuvaxovid" COVID-19 vaccine from Novavax in Saarbrucken, Germany, on Feb. 26, 2022. Frank Simon/Reuters

Novavax’s new COVID-19 vaccine received long-awaited approval from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) on May 16, but with specific restrictions.

The shot is the country’s only traditional protein-based vaccine for coronavirus, and previously, it only had emergency authorization from the FDA for use in those aged 12 and older.