WASHINGTON, D.C. — The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has announced $590 million in funding to Moderna to expedite the development of mRNA-based vaccines aimed at combating pandemic influenza and enhancing the nation’s preparedness for emerging infectious diseases. The funding, awarded through the Rapid Response Partnership Vehicle (RRPV) Consortium and supported by the Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority (BARDA), highlights the government’s commitment to strengthening public health resilience.
The initiative focuses on creating an mRNA vaccine for H5N1 influenza, a strain with pandemic potential. The technology builds upon the mRNA platform successfully utilized during the COVID-19 pandemic, offering faster vaccine development and enhanced targeting of evolving pathogens. Moderna will also advance clinical trials for an H7N9 influenza vaccine and explore additional vaccine candidates targeting other influenza subtypes.
“Avian flu variants have proven to be particularly unpredictable and dangerous to humans in the past. That is why this response has been a top priority for the Biden-Harris Administration and HHS,” said HHS Secretary Xavier Becerra. “Accelerating the development of new vaccines will allow us to stay ahead and ensure that Americans have the tools they need to stay safe.”
Assistant Secretary for Preparedness and Response Dawn O’Connell emphasized the importance of investing in innovative solutions. “mRNA technology will complement existing vaccine technology, allowing us to move faster and better target emerging viruses to protect Americans against future pandemics,” O’Connell stated.
This funding represents a significant step forward in pandemic preparedness, leveraging Moderna’s mRNA platform for rapid response to health threats. With expanded capabilities and new clinical data, the government aims to mitigate the risks posed by unpredictable influenza strains and bolster the nation’s readiness for future public health emergencies.
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