Florida attorney general sues Pfizer and CEO over COVID-19 vaccine claims
PFE•Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier sued Pfizer and CEO Albert Bourla, alleging the company misled consumers about its COVID-19 vaccine’s safety and effectiveness. The state seeks an order to stop the alleged conduct, fines and the return of profits.
1. Lawsuit alleges misleading claims
Uthmeier filed the lawsuit in state court, alleging Pfizer said its COVID-19 vaccine was safe while failing to disclose potential risks, including heart inflammation and other adverse events. The lawsuit also alleges Pfizer urged people to get vaccinated to protect others without having tested whether the vaccine stopped the virus from spreading.
2. State seeks fines and profits
Florida accused Pfizer of using unfair tactics to dominate the market and said the company made more than $80 billion from vaccine sales. The state said Pfizer nearly quadrupled the vaccine’s price in 2023, to $110-$130 per dose from $30. It seeks a court order, fines of $10,000 per violation or $15,000 when seniors or disabled people were harmed, and the return of profits.
