FDA Approves Merck's 21-valent Capvaxive Pneumococcal Vaccine for Adults

Jun 17, 2024, 09:25 PM

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved Merck's new 21-valent pneumococcal vaccine, Capvaxive, designed to protect adults against 21 strains of pneumococcus bacteria. This vaccine is the first of its kind specifically targeting adults and covers eight serotypes of Streptococcus pneumoniae not addressed by other vaccines. The approval sets the stage for a competitive battle between Merck and Pfizer, whose pneumococcal vaccine franchise is one of its largest. The Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) are expected to provide recommendations on its use next week. Capvaxive is also designed to protect against serious infections.