Operation Warp Speed Considers Half-Dosing the Moderna Option Amid Slower Than Expected COVID-19 Vaccine Rollout

Operation Warp Speed—a federal program dedicated to furthering the development and application of a COVID-19 vaccine and ensuring access for Americans—had planned on vaccinating 20 million people before the end of the year. However, at this time, only about 4.2 million Americans have received either the Pfizer or Moderna COVID-19 vaccine. To ensure that more Americans are vaccinated in a more timely manner, the head of Operation Warp Speed, Moncef Slaoui, has suggested that the Moderna vaccine be given in two half-volume doses to those between the ages of 18 and 55. Data from the Moderna vaccine trials show that two half doses produced a similar immune response as two full doses. Currently, representatives from Operation Warp Speed have reached out to the US Food and Drug Administration and Moderna to discuss the feasibility of this approach. Click here to read more.