Kansas Attorney General Kris Kobach has filed a lawsuit against pharmaceutical giant Pfizer, accusing the company of deceptive marketing practices regarding its COVID-19 vaccine. The lawsuit, lodged in state court in Thomas County, alleges that Pfizer marketed the vaccine as “safe” despite allegedly knowing it was associated with “serious adverse events.”
The legal challenge by Kansas follows a similar lawsuit filed by Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton in November. At a news conference on Monday, Kobach revealed that Kansas is among several states pursuing legal action against Pfizer. The lawsuit contends that Pfizer misrepresented its COVID-19 vaccine as “safe and effective” while being aware of potential side effects, including myocarditis and pericarditis—heart inflammations that, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), rarely occur.
“In such an environment, it is imperative Kansans making that decision receive the truth,” Kobach stated, emphasizing the importance of transparency for individuals deciding whether to get vaccinated.
Pfizer has dismissed the lawsuit as baseless. In a statement, the company expressed pride in developing the COVID-19 vaccine swiftly during the global pandemic, claiming it saved countless lives. Pfizer emphasized that its communications about the vaccine have been accurate and science-based, and that patient safety remains its top priority.
“The representations made by Pfizer about its COVID-19 vaccine have been accurate and science-based. The company believes that the state’s case has no merit and will respond to the suit in due course,” Pfizer said.
The lawsuit alleges that Pfizer’s actions violated Kansas’ consumer protection laws, despite the fact that vaccine recipients did not pay for their doses directly. Kobach argues that consumer protection laws still apply and that Pfizer violated prior consent judgments with the state. The lawsuit seeks monetary damages, although it does not specify an amount.
Kobach, a Republican, is launching this legal challenge as the pandemic fades from public consciousness, but vaccine-related anger and conspiracy theories continue to circulate, particularly among some right-wing groups. The lawsuit underscores ongoing tensions and distrust surrounding the COVID-19 vaccines.
As the legal proceedings unfold, the outcome could have significant implications for pharmaceutical companies and their accountability in public health crises.
SOURCE: THE KANSAS CITY STAR
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