Austrian MEP Gerald Hauser (Patriots for Europe) has submitted a parliamentary question to the European Commission asking whether COVID-19 vaccines that use nanotechnology were classified as nanomedicines and, if not, why not. Hauser also inquires whether these vaccines underwent all tests required for nanomedicines and, if not, whether they have been withdrawn from the market. The question targets the regulatory oversight of the European Medicines Agency (EMA) and could impact public trust in vaccine safety and the pharmaceutical industry.
The written question, submitted on 7 April 2026 under Rule 144, cites a 2006 EMA reflection paper defining nanomedicines as products using nanotechnology for medical purposes, where behaviour in the body is determined by nanosystem properties such as size, shape, and surface area. Hauser notes that nanomedicines can penetrate deep into tissue and pose unpredictable risks.
whether COVID-19 vaccines were classified as nanomedicines, whether they underwent all required tests, and whether any that did not have been withdrawn. It does not specify numerical targets or deadlines but implies a need for regulatory clarity and enforcement.
Hauser appears to advocate for stricter regulatory classification and testing of nanomedicines, potentially increasing oversight of vaccine technologies. This could pull in the direction of stronger consumer protection and transparency, but may also raise concerns about undermining vaccine confidence or imposing additional burdens on developers.
The Commission is expected to reply within approximately six weeks. Its answer will signal whether it considers existing classifications and testing sufficient, or whether it sees a need for regulatory adjustments, potentially affecting future nanomedicine approvals and market access.
← Atlas › News › Health & Lifestyle