As the situation with COVID-19 changes and develops, we’ve shared news regarding a COVID-19 vaccine being authorized for kids ages 12-15, and updates about COVID-19 case numbers in Central Florida.

Disney World Health and Safety Signage | Prior to Recent Mask and Distancing Changes

We’ve also previously shared news about the potential need in the future for COVID-19 booster shots. Now, we’ve got an update on some companies that are set to seek approval of a COVID-19 booster shot.

According to The Hill, Pfizer and BioNTech have announced that they plan to seek authorization from the FDA (the Food and Drug Administration) for a 3rd dose of their COVID-19 vaccine.

COVID-19 vaccination tents that were previously at the Disneyland Resort ©Jeff Gritchen, Orange County Register/SCNG

The companies indicated that they have seen “encouraging data” from an ongoing trial of the booster shot. The Hill notes that the companies have reported that the booster shot “provides levels of neutralizing antibodies five to 10 times higher, when administered six months after the second dose.”

In other words, as The Hill puts it, Pfizer and BioNTech have indicated this booster could provide even stronger protection against COVID-19.

New health and safety signage in Disneyland

Ultimately, the decision as to whether to recommend a third dose will be up to the FDA and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Thus far, U.S. health officials have said it isn’t clear if a booster shot is needed.

We’ll keep an eye out for more updates and let you know what we find.

Click here to see more about the number of new COVID-19 cases in Central Florida.