The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is proposing a shift to an annual COVID-19 vaccine strategy that would simplify the use and updating of the vaccines. The FDA is laying out plans for a yearly vaccine similar to the flu shot, which would make it easier to keep up with ever-evolving mutations of the virus.

The proposal was discussed at an FDA panel meeting in California this week, where the panel discussed the current COVID-19 vaccine regimens and the potential for annual updates. The FDA panel is looking at ways to make the vaccine more accessible, such as making it available through pharmacies and other outlets.

The FDA believes that an annual vaccine would be more effective at keeping up with the virus and protecting the public from the latest mutations. This strategy would also make it easier for people to get vaccinated and ensure that the latest version of the vaccine is always available.

The FDA’s proposal is still in the early stages and will need to be approved by the agency before it can be implemented. Nevertheless, the FDA’s proposed shift to an annual COVID-19 vaccine strategy is a promising step towards making the vaccine more accessible and effective.