CDC Says Flu and COVID-19 Shots Can Be Co-Administered + Merck's Oral Antiviral for COVID-19 Shows Stellar Results – Xtalks Life Science Podcast Ep. 31

In this episode, Ayesha talks about the CDC’s updated guidance according to which the COVID-19 vaccines can be administered at the same time as the flu shot and other vaccines. The new guidelines come after the federal health agency says there is now substantial data around the COVID-19 vaccines to show that it is safe to be administered alongside other vaccines. Additionally, studies show that immunization against influenza may protect against severe symptoms of COVID-19.

The editorial team also discussed the stellar trial results of Merck’s oral antiviral COVID-19 treatment molnupiravir. Last week Merck released interim data from a Phase III trial of the drug, which showed that it can cut the risk of hospitalizations and deaths by 50 percent. The results were so strong that the independent committee monitoring the trial suggested that the trial could be stopped. The team discussed the convenience of an oral pill treatment for COVID-19, and how certain factions of the public appear to be less hesitant over COVID-19 treatments compared to COVID-19 vaccines.