The United States Food and Drug Administration on Friday authorized Pfizer and Moderna COVID vaccine boosters to all people aged 18 and older.

The decision "helps to provide continued protection against COVID-19, including the serious consequences that can occur, such as hospitalization and death," said acting FDA commissioner Janet Woodcock. 

Moderna also confirmed the authorization. "This emergency use authorization comes at a critical time as we enter the winter months and face increasing COVID-19 case counts and hospitalizations across the country," said Stéphane Bancel, Chief Executive Officer of Moderna. 

The final regulatory review will be done at an advisory committee to the Centers for U.S. Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) on boosters scheduled for noon on Friday, and then a recommendation from the agency's director.