Listen: The latest mask debate, FDA in limbo, & gene therapy’s uncertain upside
When can we stop wearing masks outside? Are we ever getting a permanent FDA commissioner? And is curing disease a good business?
We cover all that and more this week on “The Readout LOUD,” STAT’s biotech podcast. First, Northwestern University epidemiologist Mercedes Carnethon joins us to weigh on the nation’s latest Covid-19 debate: Is it OK to go maskless outdoors? Then, STAT Washington correspondent Nicholas Florko calls in to talk about why the Biden administration is waiting so long to nominate an FDA commissioner and how that indecision could have real consequences. Later, we discuss the scientific promise of novel treatments for sickle cell disease — and the industry’s growing concern that they might not be as lucrative as once thought. And, naturally, we recap the latest news in the Covid-19 vaccine rollout.
