The Readout Loud 355: Moderna’s vaccine hit, the MAHA report, and an ASCO preview
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May 29, 2025 Helen Branswell, an infectious disease reporter at STAT, shares her insights on some pressing public health issues. She delves into RFK Jr.'s controversial move to alter COVID vaccine recommendations and the cancellation of a significant Moderna contract. The discussion highlights the implications of these decisions on pandemic preparedness. Additionally, the conversation touches on the Make America Healthy Again Commission's report, emphasizing the need for improved vaccine transparency and monitoring in light of recent safety concerns.
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Breast Cancer Advances at ASCO
- The American Society of Clinical Oncology meeting highlights significant breast cancer studies that could change treatment practice.
- Advances in antibody drug conjugates for triple negative breast cancer and broader breast cancer stages are emerging themes.
AI and Organs-on-Chips For Testing
- Vividyne developed advanced "lab grown biopsies" integrating AI and robotics to reduce reliance on animal testing.
- This aligns with FDA moves to phase out animal models in favor of more human-relevant preclinical testing alternatives.
RFK Jr.'s Vaccine Policy Shift
- RFK Jr.'s unilateral decision to remove COVID shot recommendations for healthy children and pregnant women bypasses usual scientific advisory processes.
- The CDC website has yet to reflect this change, illustrating potential confusion and a break from standard vaccine policy norms.