Vaxart (NasdaqCM:VXRT) 2026 Conference Transcript

Summary of Vaxart's Conference Call Company Overview - Company: Vaxart - Ticker: VXRT - Industry: Biotechnology, specifically vaccine development - Focus: Development of oral recombinant pill vaccines using an innovative delivery platform [1][2] Core Points and Arguments Innovation in Vaccines - Vaxart aims to change the traditional narrative of vaccines being injections by developing oral pill vaccines [2] - The company has lead candidates in Phase 2 for COVID-19, norovirus, and influenza vaccines, along with a preclinical program for HPV [2] Technology Platform - The technology allows for easy administration via tablets, which do not require medical training to use [4] - Oral vaccines stimulate mucosal immunity, producing IgA antibodies in the nose and intestines, which are crucial for defending against pathogens like flu and COVID [5][6] - The platform is adaptable, allowing for rapid development of vaccines for various indications without needing to overhaul manufacturing processes [7][8] Public Health Benefits - Oral vaccines could improve efficacy by stimulating both mucosal and systemic immunity [10] - They have a benign safety profile, with no injection site reactions, and have shown similar safety to placebo in trials [10][11] - The ease of administration at home could increase vaccination rates and simplify distribution, eliminating cold chain requirements and medical waste [11][12] Clinical Data and Trials Preclinical Studies - Studies in hamsters demonstrated that oral vaccines could reduce transmission of COVID-19, showing potential for public health impact [16][18] - Preclinical data supports the safety and efficacy of the technology, with significant immune responses observed [15][18] Ongoing Clinical Trials - Norovirus vaccine trials showed safety and robust immune responses, including IgA transfer to breastfeeding infants [20][21] - COVID-19 vaccine trials are ongoing, with preliminary results expected in Q1 2026 [26] - A head-to-head study of the influenza vaccine showed a 39% reduction in symptomatic infection compared to placebo, outperforming a leading injected vaccine [23][24] Future Expectations - Vaxart anticipates significant data releases in 2026, including results from COVID-19 and norovirus vaccine trials [26][27] - The company is positioned to rapidly adapt to emerging pathogens and variants, enhancing global health responses [28] Additional Insights - The oral vaccine approach could revolutionize vaccine delivery, making it more accessible and convenient for the public [32] - Vaxart's commitment to innovation in the vaccine space is highlighted as a key differentiator in the biotechnology industry [30][32]