U.S. extends Pfizer and Moderna immunity from lawsuits for Covid vaccine issues

U.S Health and Human Services has extended protections for Pfizer and Moderna, shielding them from lawsuits related to Covid vaccine injuries and deaths until 2029. This decision stems from a belief in a "credible risk" of a future pandemic escalation, despite current low Covid death rates. The PREP Act, initially enacted in 2020 to encourage vaccine research, also protects healthcare workers involved in vaccination. This move may provoke opposition from the incoming Trump administration, particularly from vaccine skeptic Robert F. Kennedy Jr.

Many claims of vaccine injury remain unaddressed, with over 10,000 pending review. Currently, Covid vaccine injury claims are handled through a compensation program that does not hold manufacturers liable. Dr. Michael Hogue argues that this extension will benefit public health and lower healthcare costs.