OPENING: In an era of media sensationalism, I have come to appreciate good journalism. When it comes to healthcare, my number one choice is STAT News, but I have also found the Financial Times and The Economist to be excellent sources. Below is a summary of an in-depth article from the Finacial Times on Pfizer and their COVID vaccine. It’s beyond damning; it’s a reflection of an industry that values profits above all else.
Pfizer
SUMMARY: According to The Washington Post “President Trump is lashing out at the Food and Drug Administration following a disclosure Monday that an experimental coronavirus vaccine from pharmaceutical giant Pfizer is more than 90 percent effective, convinced the timing — six days after Election Day — proves the “medical deep state” deliberately tried to sabotage his electoral prospects by delaying the results and Azar is agreeing with him. Very sad.
SUMMARY: Pfizer’s 90 percent effectiveness is very impressive, but the rate is based on a relatively small number of people and the data has not been peer-reviewed but today headlines rule the news, not content.