Vaccine stocks decline as Trump nominates RFK Jr. for health secretary
Vaccine stocks fell further after President-elect Donald Trump nominated Robert F. Kennedy Jr. as Secretary of Health and Human Services. Analysts noted this nomination has created uncertainty in the biotechnology sector, particularly affecting vaccine manufacturers. Kennedy, known for his critical views on vaccines, could challenge the relationship between big pharmaceutical companies and the government. This prospect has alarmed investors, leading to declines in shares of companies like Moderna, Novavax, and BioNTech. Analysts have expressed concerns about the potential impact of Kennedy's views on public health and the pharmaceutical industry. Some have downgraded ratings for vaccine companies, citing fears of reduced vaccination rates and increased scrutiny of the industry.