Florida Attorney General sues Pfizer and CEO over COVID-19 vaccine claims

Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier yesterday (1 October) filed a lawsuit against Pfizer and its CEO, Albert Bourla, accusing the drugmaker of misleading consumers about the safety and effectiveness of its COVID-19 vaccine.

Uthmeier filed the lawsuit in state court, alleging that Pfizer told consumers its COVID-19 vaccine was safe while failing to disclose potential risks, including heart inflammation and other adverse events.

Pfizer, according to the lawsuit, urged people to get the shot to protect others, even though the company never tested whether the vaccine stopped the virus from spreading.

Florida has also accused Pfizer of using unfair tactics to dominate the market.

It said the company made more than $80 billion from vaccine sales, then nearly quadrupled the price of the vaccine to $110 to $130 a dose in 2023.

The state, suing under its consumer protection law, wants a court order to stop the alleged conduct, fines of $10,000 per violation or $15,000 when seniors or disabled people were harmed, and the return of profits.

Pfizer said in a statement the state's allegations have no merit and that it would respond to the suit in due course.

"The representations made by Pfizer about its COVID-19 vaccine have been accurate and science-based, and the company stands behind the safety and efficacy of its vaccine," the company said.

"The complaint and comments by Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier speak for themselves," the Florida Attorney General's Office said in response to a Reuters request for additional comment.