Merck's pneumococcal vaccine wins US approval for high-risk children, teens

Merck said the U.S. health regulator approved an expanded use of its pneumococcal vaccine for children and teenagers at higher risk due to chronic health conditions. The decision is a modest positive for Merck’s vaccine franchise, expanding the eligible patient population. The news is important for the company and healthcare segment, but is unlikely to have a broad market impact.

Analysis

Merck said the U.S. health regulator approved an expanded use of its pneumococcal vaccine for children and teenagers at higher risk due to chronic health conditions. The decision is a modest positive for Merck’s vaccine franchise, expanding the eligible patient population. The news is important for the company and healthcare segment, but is unlikely to have a broad market impact.