Vaxcyte’s pneumococcal vaccine meets primary goals in Phase 3 trial, challenging Pfizer and Merck

Vaxcyte announced that its experimental pneumococcal vaccine, VAX-31, achieved the primary endpoints in a pivotal Phase 3 study. The data, presented in a company release, show the shot met its predefined efficacy and safety targets.

The positive readout positions Vaxcyte to compete directly with established players such as Pfizer and Merck, which already market pneumococcal vaccines. Analysts note that a successful product could capture market share in a space that protects against 31 serotypes.

The announcement came alongside other industry updates, including the FDA’s decision to extend the review period for Novo Nordisk’s experimental hemophilia A therapy. While unrelated to Vaxcyte’s trial, the broader regulatory activity underscores the dynamic environment for biotech developments.