FDA Vaccine Chief Limits COVID Shot Use, Overruling Staff

The head of vaccines at the FDA, Dr. Prasad, changed the rules for two COVID-19 vaccines, even though the scientists working under him had already said they were safe.

Originally, the scientists wanted everyone 12 and older to be able to get the shots, but Dr. Prasad said they should only be given to people who are more likely to get very sick from COVID, like older adults or people with other health problems.

He made this decision because fewer people are dying or going to the hospital from COVID, and he was worried about rare side effects from the vaccines.

This kind of decision is unusual for top FDA officials.