The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) under new HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. is poised to change policies around vaccines that defend against COVID-19 and human papillomavirus (HPV).
Following Tuesday’s deliberations, the ACIP panel appears set to recommend reduced uses of both types of immunizations in a potential blow to companies like Pfizer and Merck & Co.
Experts believe the advisers are ready to narrow their recommendations for who should receive booster doses. According to Leerink Partners, 76% of ACIP members favor a risk-based approach to booster shots, which could signal how they vote at the next meeting.
One policy option being considered is endorsing two annual booster shots for those 65 and older and others with underlying conditions. The move could pressure expected revenues of Pfizer, BioNTech, and Moderna this year and next.
Merck & Co.’s HPV vaccine Gardasil sales are also closely watched as new data will inform the June discussion. Leerink predicts that a modified U.S. HPV vaccine schedule could reduce U.S. Gardasil revenue by over 50%.
The ACIP session has no immediate impact on its process, but any changes to policy or ACIP member roles may take time to materialize. The CDC director can accept or reject recommendations, which will be critical in monitoring the impact of new HHS Secretary Kennedy Jr.’s influence on vaccine policy.
Source: https://www.fiercepharma.com/pharma/acip-discussions-indicate-recommendations-covid-hpv-shots-could-be-modified