With boosters on the horizon, analysts raise mRNA sales projections

Pfizer/BioNTech and Moderna could rake in a whopping $109 billion through next year from vaccine sales.

The new projections come as the world grapples with the fast-spreading Delta variant, which is prompting some unvaccinated people to get the shots. More governments are also getting on board with recommending booster shots. This week, the Biden administration recommended that Americans get a third mRNA dose eight months after both initial doses.

As the companies ready additional doses to meet the potential of increased demand, analysts this week bumped up Pfizer/BioNTech’s projected sales through next year to $74 billion — a 17% increase. Meanwhile, Moderna’s projected sales forecasts have increased by 25% to $35 billion during the same time period.

Leaders at the companies have also speculated that the novel coronavirus will become an endemic virus that hangs around for many years — keeping demand for COVID-19 vaccines steady. 

Prices for mRNA vaccines are also on the rise. Initially, Pfizer/BioNTech charged the U.S. government $19.50 per dose — but is now charging $24 for each shot. Moderna, meanwhile, has bumped up its price from $15 to $16.50 a shot in the U.S.