Pfizer says vaccine 100 percent effective in kids 12 to 15

Pfizer and BioNTech announced Wednesday morning that their COVID-19 vaccine is 100 percent effective in children ages 12 to 15.

In a clinical trial of 2,260 adolescents, researchers identified 18 COVID-19 cases among the placebo group and none among those vaccinated.

The companies said they planned to submit their data to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) as soon as possible and request expansion of their emergency use authorization.

What this means: The FDA has so far approved the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine for those 16 and older. The other two vaccines authorized in the U.S., Moderna and Johnson & Johnson, are only approved for those 18 and older.

Pfizer CEO Albert Bourla said he hopes to start vaccinating the younger age group before the start of the next school year, which could alleviate concerns about reopening schools.