After vaccine skeptics took control, Covid lawsuits quickly followed

Isabella Cueto covers the leading causes of death and disability: chronic diseases. Her focus includes autoimmune conditions and diseases of the lungs, kidneys, liver (and more). She writes about intriguing research, the promises and pitfalls of treatment, and what can be done about the burden of disease. You can reach Isabella on Signal at isabellacueto.03.

DALLAS — A wave of Covid pandemic-era lawsuits that previously faced steep odds of success are gaining momentum under the Trump administration. 

Some courts have become friendlier environments as Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. overhauls federal health care policies and brings vaccine skepticism into the mainstream. The outcome could look like restricted access to vaccines, a brand-new approach to the monitoring of side effects, or even poking holes in vaccine makers’ legal protections. 

Vaccine-injury attorneys are excitedly discussing how to build new legal strategies that could further shape policy in their favor. Using a novel approach, lawyers are also creating opportunities for the Trump administration to publicly pick a side in court — and possibly influence legal precedent for years to come.