MRNA Stock Jumps on CDC's Revised RSV Vaccine Recommendations

Core Viewpoint - The U.S. CDC has adopted new recommendations for RSV vaccinations, lowering the age for eligible recipients, which has positively impacted Moderna's stock price and expanded its market potential for the RSV vaccine, mResvia [1][7]. Group 1: CDC Recommendations - The CDC has revised its recommendations to include adults aged 50-59 at higher risk of severe illness from RSV, advising them to receive a single dose of the vaccine [2][8]. - Previously, the guidance recommended vaccination for individuals aged 75 and older, and those aged 60-74 who were at high risk [2][8]. - The current HHS secretary, Robert F. Kennedy, Jr., officially adopted these recommendations, filling the role of CDC director, which is currently vacant [3]. Group 2: Impact on Moderna - The expanded CDC recommendations increase the addressable market for Moderna's RSV vaccine, mResvia, by including a new segment of eligible patients aged 50-59 [7][8]. - Despite the initial approval of mResvia for individuals aged 60 and older, the FDA recently expanded its label to include high-risk individuals aged 18-59 [9]. - Sales of mResvia have been modest since its commercial launch last year, as it was approved later in the contracting season compared to GSK's and Pfizer's vaccines [9][10]. Group 3: Competitive Landscape - Moderna is competing with GSK and Pfizer, both of which have already received approvals for their RSV vaccines for individuals aged 60 and older, with GSK's Arexvy also approved for high-risk individuals aged 50-59, and Pfizer's Abrysvo approved for high-risk individuals aged 18-59 [11]. - The earlier availability of GSK and Pfizer's vaccines has given them a dominant position in the market over Moderna [10]. Group 4: Stock Performance - Year to date, Moderna's stock has lost 27%, while the industry has only seen a 2% decline [5].