Pfizer manufacturing facility in Kalamazoo, Michigan. (Photo: Pfizer) |
US regulators late on Friday authorized the vaccine from Pfizer and partner BioNTech for use, and US marshals will accompany the tightly secured shipments from factory to final destination.
The vaccine offers up to 95% protection against COVID-19 and was deemed safe by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
US Army General Gustave Perna said on a Saturday press call that the first shots will be administered as early as Monday.
Healthcare workers and elderly residents of long-term care homes are first in line to receive the inoculations.