The Food and Drug Administration is expected next week to grant full approval of the COVID-19 vaccine from Pfizer Inc. PFE, -0.16% and partner BioNTech SE BNTX, +5.08%, according to people familiar with the planning, an action that could spur more vaccination requirements by employers and encourage more people who are hesitant to get vaccinated.
The two-dose shot was first cleared in December by the agency on an emergency use basis for people 16 years and older. The emergency designation allows for products to be distributed during public-health crises based on the best available evidence.