New COVID-19 vaccines approved for 2026-27 to combat latest active viruses

Johnson & Johnson (JNJ) stock fell 5% despite raising its full-year outlook due to one-time charges, including talc litigation. Q3 2026 revenue grew 5.9%, but reported net earnings dropped 95.9%. Eli Lilly (LLY) and Pfizer (PFE) also saw declines. JNJ's growth came from its Innovative Medicine division, while MedTech lagged. The company secured market authorization for its OTTAVA robotic surgical system and priority review for RYBREVANT FASPRO.

Enodia Therapeutics and Pfizer Inc. agreed to collaborate on developing Sec61-targeting small molecules. Enodia will handle discovery, while Pfizer will manage clinical, manufacturing, and commercial activities post-collaboration. Enodia may receive over $500 million in upfront, milestone, and royalty payments.

Pfizer presented phase 3 trial results showing Litfulo (ritlecitinib) significantly improved facial and total body repigmentation in nonsegmental vitiligo compared to placebo. The trials, TRANQUILLO 2 and TRANQUILLO, also showed reduced disease severity and stabilization. Pfizer plans to submit the data to global regulators, including the FDA and EMA. According to Pfizer, Litfulo addresses the root cause of the disease.

Moderna's stock rose 14.2% on October 9 after NIH announced a $200M cancer vaccine initiative. Novavax also gained 15.8%. Analysts project Moderna's 2028 revenue at $3.39B, though its valuation is high. Moderna's Phase 3 melanoma presentation with Merck on October 24 is a key upcoming event.

Health Canada is reviewing Moderna's mRNA flu vaccine, mFlusiva, which has been approved in the U.S. and shown 27% greater effectiveness than traditional vaccines. Clinical trials with over 40,000 adults aged 50+ found lower flu-like illness rates. Decision expected this year, with potential variations in availability and cost.

Moderna (MRNA) stock has surged 621% in the past year, despite declining sales and heavy reliance on COVID vaccines. The company's potential growth hinges on intismeran autogene, a cancer therapy in development with Merck, which has shown promise in a Phase 3 trial. Moderna is preparing for a potential launch, but the therapy is not yet on sale. The company's revenue was $2.2 billion in the last year, with COVID vaccines making up 93% of sales.