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Home Industry News Animal Health Moderna Secures Major HHS Funding for Bird Flu Vaccine Development
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Moderna Secures Major HHS Funding for Bird Flu Vaccine Development

21st January 2025

Moderna has been awarded nearly $600 million by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to expedite the development of mRNA vaccines targeting bird flu strains. This significant funding aims to support Moderna’s work on an H5N1 flu vaccine matched to current strains affecting livestock and wildlife, enhancing pandemic preparedness efforts.

This investment comes as part of a continuing collaboration between Moderna and HHS’s Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority (BARDA), which began in 2023. With previous funding of $176 million, the goal is to produce mRNA vaccines capable of countering potential flu pandemics, including those caused by the avian influenza strain H5N1. Moderna is making strides towards launching a phase 3 study of mRNA-1018, addressing H5 and H7 avian flu viruses.

Early phase 1/2 results are promising, with further findings expected to be shared at an upcoming medical conference. This substantial financial support underlines the critical role of mRNA technology in swiftly responding to emerging viral threats, offering hope for quicker vaccine development compared to traditional methods.

The additional $590 million in funding marks a pivotal step for Moderna and the broader industry in addressing pandemic threats. By accelerating the development of targeted vaccines, this initiative not only strengthens America’s pandemic defense strategy but also exemplifies the potential of mRNA technology in revolutionizing vaccine production. As Moderna progresses, the landscape of future pandemic preparedness looks increasingly robust and adaptable.

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