Novavax (NVAX) shares plummeted 5.07% in intraday trading on Tuesday as the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's (CDC) outside expert panel began a two-day meeting to review vaccine guidelines. The meeting, which had been delayed for nearly two months, includes discussions on potentially narrowing recommendations for COVID-19 booster shots.

The Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) is expected to discuss whether to limit the recommendations on who should receive updated COVID-19 shots for the 2025-2026 season. Currently, the CDC recommends that individuals aged six months and older should be given an updated COVID-19 vaccine, regardless of previous inoculations. Any changes to these guidelines could significantly impact vaccine manufacturers like Novavax.

While the outcome of the meeting remains uncertain, investors appear to be reacting cautiously to the potential for reduced vaccine demand. The CDC's chief of staff, Matthew Buzzelli, will be responsible for weighing in on the panel's recommendations, as the agency currently lacks a confirmed director. The market will be closely watching the results of this meeting, which could have far-reaching implications for Novavax and other vaccine producers in the coming year.