Thread by @DrEricDing

BREAKING—FDA has authorized the use of excess remainders in Pfizer vaccine vials—could mean up to 40% more vaccine doses! "Given the public health emergency, FDA is advising that it is acceptable to use every full dose obtainable," FDA told POLITICO. 🧵
politico.com/news/2020/12/1…

2) federal health official sent notification to state vaccine providers Wednesday morning. The federal government has not publicly announced the guidance; Pfizer learned of the change this afternoon.

3) “The Pfizer vials are supposed to hold five doses, but pharmacists have found they have enough for a sixth or even a seventh dose. Putting those into use could significantly increase the United States' scarce early supply of the shot, reducing likelihood of a "vaccine cliff"

4) I give massive credit to pharmacists who discovered this issue and sought permission to use the 6th and even sometimes 7th dose. Here was the earlier article on the topic which now the new FDA guidance solves. statnews.com/2020/12/16/lab…