FDA Issues Emergency Use Authorization for Pfizer COVID-19 Vaccine The FDA issued the first emergency use authorization for a coronavirus vaccine on December 11. By Nikki Johnson-BoldenDec 16, 2020 The FDA issued emergency use authorization (EUA) for the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine on December 11. FDA Commissioner Stephen M. Hahn, M.D. called the authorization a significant milestone in battling the pandemic in the United States. The data presented by Pfizer proves that the vaccine may be effective in preventing coronavirus, according to the FDA. “While not an FDA approval, today’s emergency use authorization of the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine holds the promise to alter the course of this pandemic in the United States,” said Peter Marks, Director of the FDA’s Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research. The National Safety Council voiced its support of the EUA, as well as reminded employers to enforce safety precautions to prevent further spread of the virus. The NSC also encourages employers to support the vaccine. For more information on the EAU, visit fda.gov. About the Author Nikki Johnson-Bolden is an Associate Content Editor for Occupational Health & Safety. Let's block ads! (Why?)