Moderna (MRNA) Shares Rise on Positive Trial Results and CDC Alert for Increased Immunization Coverage\n\nModerna (MRNA) shares saw a significant increase of over 9% on Thursday following positive trial results for a collaborative skin cancer treatment with Merck (MRK). This treatment combines a vaccine with the drug Keytruda. In contrast, Pfizer (PFE) disappointed investors this week with its 2024 guidance. Yahoo Finance Health Reporter Anjalee Khemlani provides expert insight and highlights the top stories and biggest drivers behind pharmaceutical stocks on Thursday.\n\nThe U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) issued an alert on Thursday urging healthcare providers to increase immunization coverage for influenza, COVID-19, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). The CDC expressed concern over low vaccination rates and the potential for increased disease severity and strain on healthcare capacity in the coming weeks. They recommend antiviral medications for influenza and COVID-19 for all eligible patients, particularly older adults and those with underlying medical conditions.\n\nAccording to CDC data, hospitalizations for influenza, COVID-19, and RSV have increased significantly in the past four weeks, with a 200% increase for influenza, 51% for COVID-19, and 60% for RSV. The CDC also reported a decrease of 7.4 million influenza vaccine doses administered to adults compared to the previous season. There has been an increase in RSV and COVID-19 vaccinations among adults aged 60 and above, with 16% and 36% respectively.\n\nPfizer, Moderna, and Novavax have all developed COVID-19 vaccines that are approved in the United States, with Pfizer also having an approved RSV vaccine. This news comes as the Dow Jones index reached another high, although the market weakened in afternoon trading. CAT stock saw a jump in response to this news.\n\n Moderna’s positive trial results and Pfizer’s disappointing guidance have been the main drivers behind the pharmaceutical market on Thursday.