UK government snubs GSK in favour of rival RSV shot from Pfizer
The decision is a blow to GSK, which is locked in fierce competition with Pfizer to corner the new market to protect against respiratory syncytial virus
GSK has lost out to Pfizer on a contract to supply millions of doses of its blockbuster RSV vaccine to the UK in a setback for the local pharma giant.
The US drugmaker was chosen to supply over 3.5 million doses of its Abrysvo vaccine to older adults and more than 1.4 million doses to pregnant mothers to protect their babies in England and Northern Ireland over the next two years, according to a redacted contract published earlier this month.
The decision is a blow to GSK, which is locked in fierce competition with Pfizer to corner the new market to protect against respiratory syncytial virus, a common but sometimes deadly virus that is most dangerous for the very young and the elderly.
The contract followed a competitive tender process, a Pfizer spokesperson said. GSK has been contacted for comment.
The vaccine deliveries are due to start in July to protect the elderly and newborn babies before the next cold season.
Pfizer’s shot is the only one cleared for both pregnant women – to protect their unborn babies – and the elderly. GSK’s product is just approved for older adults. BLOOMBERG
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