Today is another step forward in our nation's fight against the virus. Following an independent scientific review by the Food and Drug Administration last week and today by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Novavax's protein-based COVID-19 vaccine for adults has been authorized. We now have four safe and effective COVID-19 vaccines available to protect Americans against serious illness, hospitalizations, and death.
When I took office, my Administration took decisive action to fix a broken COVID-19 response and stand up a historic vaccination program that has gotten over 260 million Americans at least their first shot, and nearly 110 million people a booster shot. This unprecedented effort has already saved over 2 million American lives, but more people need to roll up their sleeves, particularly as we confront BA.5.
The science and data are clear: vaccines continue to protect people from serious illness, hospitalizations, and death-and with BA.5 increasing infections, it is essential that people get themselves and their kids vaccinated and stay up to date on their COVID-19 vaccinations. I encourage everyone to get their booster if they are eligible. If you're age 50 or older, or a moderately or severely immunocompromised individual, and haven't gotten a vaccine shot this year-you should get one right away. It is free, easy, and could save your life.
Over the past 18 months, my Administration has left no stone unturned to ensure Americans have easy and convenient access to lifesaving tools, including vaccines, treatments, tests and more. These tools work even in the face of BA.5-they protect people, keep people out of the hospital, and save lives. While we know COVID-19 isn't over, we can manage this moment and continue to minimize COVID-19's impact on our daily lives.
