Vaccine IP Enforcement Takes Stage in Global Immunization Fight

The post-pandemic need for coronavirus vaccine booster shots may trigger intellectual property lawsuits as early vaccine makers aim to keep competitors out of that lucrative market, health experts say.

The situation is complicating a debate over sharing manufacturing know-how to speed up global immunization.

Pfizer Inc. in April reiterated its position that a third dose of its Covid-19 vaccine may be needed to fend off future infection. Moderna meanwhile said a booster for its two-dose vaccine regimen will be available by this fall.

The announcements come as world leaders, drug companies, and advocates argue over loosening IP rights around vaccine ...