Overview

• The FDA unexpectedly canceled its annual March meeting to decide on flu vaccine strains for the 2025-2026 season, with no explanation provided.
• The decision disrupts the usual six-month production timeline needed to prepare vaccines for the fall flu season.
• Manufacturers typically rely on FDA guidance, which is informed by recommendations from the World Health Organization, to select flu strains for vaccines.
• The cancellation follows a severe flu season in the U.S., with 19,000 adult deaths and 86 pediatric deaths reported so far.
• Concerns grow over potential delays in vaccine availability and effectiveness, as well as broader implications for U.S. vaccine policy under current leadership.