U.S. health officials just endorsed booster shots of Moderna's COVID-19 vaccine for some at-risk Americans. The booster shots are likely to be approved by the FDA next week, officials say.

The panel of advisers from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) voted unanimously on Thursday (October 14) to recommend a booster shot for seniors and other at-risk adults — including those with health problems and those living or working in high-risk situations.

The panel's recommendation, however, calls for a half dose of the vaccine. The initial Moderna vaccination consists of two 100-microgram shots. The recommended booster is a single 50-microgram shot.

The agency is also expected to discuss booster shots for the Johnson & Johnson vaccine as well during their meetings on Friday, CNN reports. 

CDC officials will meet next week to finalize a plan. A booster shot of Pfizer's COVID-19 vaccine has already been approved by health officials.

LOOK: Answers to 30 common COVID-19 vaccine questions

While much is still unknown about the coronavirus and the future, what is known is that the currently available vaccines have gone through all three trial phases and are safe and effective. It will be necessary for as many Americans as possible to be vaccinated in order to finally return to some level of pre-pandemic normalcy, and hopefully these 30 answers provided here will help readers get vaccinated as soon they are able.

LOOK: What major laws were passed the year you were born?

Data for this list was acquired from trusted online sources and news outlets. Read on to discover what major law was passed the year you were born and learn its name, the vote count (where relevant), and its impact and significance.

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