Facing a brutal run, battered vaccine makers still see cause for hope 

Daniel covers the intersection of the health industry and the federal government. He reports on corporate influence in government, the health consequences of federal policies, and the politics of health care. Confidential tips can be sent on Signal at danielp.100.

SAN DIEGO — The current climate for vaccine businesses is anything but typical. However, for the attendees at this week’s BIO international conference, there is a sense of cautious optimism.

Vaccine manufacturers are notably more hopeful than they were the previous year, given the challenging circumstances they face.

In discussions with STAT, industry leaders expressed that Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., known for his critical stance on vaccines, has introduced significant upheaval. This includes the termination of key mRNA vaccine agreements, the rollback of universal vaccine guidelines, and reductions in federal funding for research, with potential for further changes from Washington.