The Food and Drug Administration recently authorized Novavax’s updated protein-based Covid vaccine for emergency use in individuals ages 12 and older. This decision opens the door for Novavax’s vaccine to rival those produced by Pfizer and Moderna in the upcoming fall and winter seasons.
Novavax’s vaccine specifically targets the highly contagious omicron subvariant JN.1, which has been circulating widely in the United States this year. Despite JN.1 accounting for only 0.2% of cases nationwide, Novavax’s vaccine has shown effectiveness against descendants of JN.1 that are currently prevalent in the U.S.
Novavax’s CEO, John Jacobs, highlighted that the updated vaccine targets the ‘parent strain’ of circulating variants and demonstrates strong cross-reactivity against viruses within the JN.1 lineage. This protein-based approach provides an alternative for individuals hesitant to receive mRNA shots from Pfizer and Moderna.
Novavax anticipates that its vaccine will be widely available in thousands of locations across the United States, including retail pharmacies, independent pharmacies, and regional grocers. This widespread distribution aims to make the vaccine easily accessible to a large portion of the population.
Market Response and Competition
Following the FDA’s authorization, Novavax’s stock rose by over 8%, indicating positive market reception. This approval comes shortly after the FDA approved new mRNA shots from Pfizer and Moderna, targeting a different offshoot of the JN.1 variant. Novavax’s earlier authorization had placed the company at a disadvantage compared to its competitors.
As public health officials view Novavax’s vaccine as a valuable option for those reluctant to receive mRNA vaccines, the upcoming fall and winter seasons will reveal how many individuals choose to get a new Covid shot. Novavax’s use of protein-based technology offers a familiar approach to vaccine development, contrasting with the newer mRNA method utilized by Pfizer and Moderna.
Novavax’s protein-based Covid vaccine represents a significant development in the fight against the ongoing pandemic. With its unique targeting of the omicron subvariant JN.1 and broad availability across the U.S., Novavax’s vaccine aims to provide a viable alternative in the evolving landscape of Covid vaccination.