On Friday morning, Novavax Inc. (NVAX) shares plummeted over 5% during premarket trading amid concerns over President-elect Donald Trump's decision to nominate Robert F. Kennedy Jr., a well-known vaccine skeptic, to lead the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS).
The appointment of Kennedy, who has spread misinformation about vaccines and criticized federal health agencies, sent shockwaves through the vaccine industry. Shares of other vaccine makers, including Moderna Inc. (MRNA), BioNTech SE (BNTX), and Pfizer Inc. (PFE), also declined as investors worried about the potential impact on the sector under Kennedy's leadership.
Analysts expressed uncertainty about Kennedy's specific policy proposals and priorities for healthcare and the pharmaceutical industry. However, his track record as an outspoken critic of childhood vaccinations and his nonprofit's opposition to vaccine mandates have raised concerns about the future of vaccine programs and the broader public health landscape.