Pfizer and BioNTech seek emergency vaccine approval

Pfizer and BioNTech are to seek emergency government approval for their coronavirus vaccine (Ryan Remiorz/AP)

Pharmaceutical companies Pfizer and BioNTech are to seek emergency government approval for their coronavirus vaccine, as the US aims to begin administering doses by the end of the year.

Health and Human Services Secretary Alex Azar said the companies would seek an emergency use authorisation on Friday from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).