After successfully developing vaccines in less than a year after the COVID-19 pandemic started, Moderna and Pfizer now face the unique situation of navigating the end of U.S. government contracts that allowed all Americans to receive their shots for free.
The prices outlined by Pfizer and Moderna for the transition to a long-term business represent a significant jump over the $25-$30 a dose paid under government contracts. And Sanders contends that Moderna’s vaccine can be made for as little as $2.85 a dose.
Most health experts expect COVID-19 inoculations to become a yearly recommendation, much like flu vaccines. For well-insured patients, the shots are likely to be fully covered no matter the price. But Sanders and other lawmakers have focused on uninsured and underinsured patients who may find the vaccines are out of reach. READ MORE
By Kristin Jensen
Source: biopharmadive.com
Giovanni Caforio, the former CEO of Bristol Myers Squibb, is set to become the next board chairman of Novartis, which on Tuesday proposed the pharmaceutical industry veteran as its pick to replace Joerg Reinhardt in the role next year. Reinhardt has served as Novartis’ chair since 2013 and plans to retire when his 12-year term ends in 2025.
GE HealthCare has raised the curtain on two ultrasound systems equipped with artificial intelligence programs designed to assist in diagnosing conditions in women’s health, including obstetric exams. The Voluson Signature 20 and 18 imaging systems include AI tools capable of automatically identifying and annotating measurements of fetal anatomy.
Scientists from the University of Edinburgh’s School of Chemistry have revealed a new sustainable method of manufacturing complex molecules that could reduce waste produced during drug production. The method published in Nature Chemistry could help to prevent severe side effects caused by drugs that can exist as enantiomers.
