Sanofi Reports Decline in Vaccine Sales Amid Shifting Immunization Landscape

French pharmaceutical giant Sanofi has reported a significant decrease in vaccine sales for the third quarter of 2025, citing slower-than-usual uptake of flu shots in the United States and increased price competition in Germany. Despite this setback, the company's overall revenue saw a modest increase, buoyed by strong performance in other key areas.

Vaccine Sales Slump

Sanofi's overall vaccine sales declined by 7.8% to €3.4 billion ($3.9 billion) between July and September. The company attributes this downturn primarily to a slowdown in influenza vaccinations, particularly in the U.S. market. Combined with revenues from Novavax's COVID-19 vaccine Nuvaxovid, flu-related sales decreased by 16.8% to €1.5 billion.

Thomas Triomphe, Sanofi's head of vaccines R&D, noted, "It's early. We're still in October. But I think it's fair that with the first few weeks that we observed a little bit of vaccination rate on the soft side when it comes to flu vaccination, particularly in the U.S."

This decline in vaccination rates occurs against a backdrop of changing U.S. health policy. The confirmation of Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. has led to significant changes in vaccine policy guidance, including an overhaul of a key advisory committee. Additionally, the Food and Drug Administration has implemented a stricter framework for COVID-19 shots, resulting in narrower clearances.

Strong Performance in Other Areas

Despite the challenges in the vaccine sector, Sanofi reported positive results in other areas of its business. The company's overall revenue rose by 2.3%, driven in large part by the continued success of its blockbuster anti-inflammatory drug Dupixent. Sales of Dupixent surged by 26.2% to €4.2 billion, setting a new quarterly record and surpassing consensus estimates.

Sanofi's RSV prevention drug for infants, Beyfortus, also exceeded expectations with sales jumping 14.6% to €739 million. The company's portfolio of newer drug launches, including the hemophilia medication Altuviiio and rare disease therapy Ayvakit, saw impressive growth of 57.1%, reaching €1 billion for the quarter.

Future Outlook and Company Strategy

Despite the current challenges in the vaccine market, Sanofi remains committed to its vaccine business. CEO Paul Hudson emphasized the company's ongoing investment in the space, stating, "Sanofi has a proud legacy of flu vaccines, and we remain committed on bringing innovation to strengthen our leadership in flu and to provide better protection for patients."

The company is actively developing multiple combination shots for influenza and other viruses, aiming to bolster its position in the evolving vaccine landscape. As the pharmaceutical industry continues to navigate the complex interplay of public health policies, market dynamics, and technological advancements, Sanofi's diversified portfolio appears to provide a measure of resilience in the face of sector-specific challenges.