Lawmakers Urge FDA to Explain ‘Unusual Decision’ to Clear Booster Shots for Children

Rep. Chip Roy (R-Texas) speaks at a news conference at the U.S. Capitol in Washington on Sept. 22, 2021. Kevin Dietsch/Getty Images

Twenty-five members of Congress are asking U.S. drug regulators to explain why they cleared COVID-19 vaccine booster shots for 12- to 15-year-olds without consulting a panel of expert advisers.

The population is at little risk of severe illness or death from COVID-19 but the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) earlier this month authorized a booster of Pfizer’s shot for the age group.