Three US pharmaceutical companies, Pfizer Inc (NYSE:PFE), Moderna Therapeutics Inc (NASDAQ:MRNA), and Novavax Inc, are gearing up to release updated Covid-19 vaccines this autumn.
The new jabs are designed to combat recent strains, although not specifically the newly identified Eris variant.
However, the government will not be purchasing and distributing these doses. Instead, the products will be available directly from pharmaceutical companies to pharmacies and medical offices via the commercial market.
The Eris strain has emerged as a "variant of interest" for the World Health Organization (WHO) and has been detected in over 51 countries since the beginning of August.
This includes nations such as China, the U.S., Korea, Japan, and Canada.
Currently, Eris accounts for approximately 17% of Covid cases in the US, as per the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
While hospitalizations due to Covid are on the rise, they are increasing from a previously low base. Notably, the federal designation of the virus as a public health emergency was lifted in May.
Despite the proactive approach of vaccine manufacturers in anticipation of the winter flu season, there remains uncertainty about the demand.
Pfizer's CEO, Albert Bourla, expressed this sentiment in a recent investor meeting, emphasizing that the severity of the disease and public interest in treatment will be significant determinants.