Pfizer continues to be recognized for its rapid development of the COVID-19 vaccine, while it is currently exploring the possibility of using it for younger age groups. However, the company's CEO, Albert Bourla, has made a surprising statement about the pandemic that dashed hopes. He confirmed that there will be a "permanent demand" for the COVID-19 vaccine, similar to flu vaccines, reflecting the American pharmaceutical giant's expectation that the virus will remain prevalent and be treated like other diseases.
In a press statement following the company’s quarterly earnings announcement, Bourla expressed pride in how Pfizer began in 2021, noting that it has continued to accelerate the production and shipment of the vaccine, often exceeding its contractual obligations for delivery timelines. He also highlighted that data submitted to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) on Friday indicates that the vaccine can be stored in a refrigerator for four weeks, which facilitates storage for vaccination centers without freezers, according to the Financial Times.
**Storage Challenge**
At the same time, the company revealed that it is working on a new vaccine that can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 10 weeks, with data expected to be released in August. Following the earnings announcement, the company’s stock price rose by 1% in pre-opening trading on the U.S. stock market. Pfizer reported a 45% increase in first-quarter profits to $14.6 billion compared to the same period last year, exceeding analysts' forecasts.
Ongoing scientific efforts aim to develop a second generation of vaccines against the novel virus, while the "enemy of humanity" continues its attack worldwide, having infected over 154 million people and led to more than two million deaths.
In recent developments, pharmaceutical companies and U.S. government laboratories are working on COVID-19 vaccines that can be taken as pills or nasal sprays, which would be easier to store than current injectable vaccines, according to the Wall Street Journal.
**Longer Immunity**
These new vaccines are expected to provide longer-lasting immune responses and will be more effective against mutated strains, according to the developing companies, which may help prevent future pandemics. Currently authorized vaccines in the United States such as Pfizer and Moderna require extremely low temperatures for storage and transport, and recipients must take two doses at spaced intervals.
