South African researchers say people who recovered and were vaccinated are largely protected against the new variant, vaccination alone still likely to prevent severe disease

First research from South Africa indicates drop in effectiveness of Pfizer vaccine, but Omicron does not completely evade shot; boosters are beneficial

Health providers say some kids have arm pain, but not significant enough for parents to report it, as well as isolated cases of moderate fever: 'This shows it's a safe vaccine'

Stephane Bancel says there's 'no world' in which protection will prove to be the same against new strain, says he expects a 'material drop'

Albert Bourla says new shot may be needed if testing shows existing vaccine provides less protection against new coronavirus variant

Pharmaceutical company says it is also examining using a higher dose of its existing vaccine against new strain

Firm that developed vaccine with Pfizer says it will have more data available next month, but has plans in motion to be able to mass-manufacture adapted inoculation

Decision by body's regulator comes days after Israel rolls out the shots for children

No serious safety concerns seen in individuals with at least 6 months of follow-up after 2nd dose; pharma giant says data will help support application for full approval

Officials also decide on 3-week wait between first two shots for children 5-11 when campaign kicks off this week; over half of recent infections said to be among young children