Statement of President Joe Biden on Pfizer’s COVID-19 Antiviral Treatment

Earlier this month, we received promising news that Pfizer has developed an antiviral pill for people infected by COVID-19 that may dramatically reduce the risk of hospitalizations and death. While this antiviral pill still requires a full review by the Food and Drug Administration, I have taken immediate steps to secure enough supply for the American people. Today, I’m announcing that we have purchased 10 million treatment courses of the Pfizer antiviral COVID-19 pill, with delivery starting at the end of this year and across 2022. My administration is making the necessary preparations now to ensure these treatments will be easily accessible and free. This is positive news. This treatment could prove to be another critical tool in our arsenal that will accelerate our path out of the pandemic. But vaccines remain our strongest tool. With the authorization of vaccines for children aged 5 – 11 years old, 95% of Americans are now eligible to be vaccinated. My message continues to be: get vaccinated. The vaccines are safe, free, and easily available. Don’t wait. Get vaccinated today. I will continue to take all necessary steps to ensure that America has the tools we need to save lives and bring an end to this pandemic. ###