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Merck recently announced its intent to acquire Cidara Therapeutics in a deal with a total transaction value of approximately $9.2 billion. Cidara’s pipeline includes an experimental long-acting antiviral drug that has the potential to offer single-dose, universal prevention against influenza A and B. Known as “CD388,” the pipeline product is not a vaccine but a low molecular weight biologic. It is expected to offer seasonal protection for various populations, including immunocompromised individuals. The transaction is on track to close in the first quarter of 2026, and Merck remains one of the most active deal-making pharma companies this year.
Trials continue: According to a Cidara press release, a single dose of the CD388 antiviral provided as much as 76% protection from symptomatic influenza over 24 weeks compared to a placebo in a recent phase 2 trial.