In a significant step towards addressing the potential threat of avian influenza, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has awarded Moderna nearly $600 million to continue its research into a vaccine that targets bird flu. The funding, which totals $590 million, was announced on Friday and marks a pivotal moment in the ongoing battle against flu strains that have the potential to evolve into a pandemic.
Bird flu, specifically the H5N1 strain, has been a concern for health officials for several years due to its ability to infect humans in rare cases, with potentially deadly outcomes. In 2023, Moderna took a crucial step by launching a study aimed at developing a “pandemic influenza vaccine” that would protect against avian influenza viruses, including both the H5 and H7 subtypes. This research has already shown promising results, leading to the continued financial backing from the HHS.
This funding will allow Moderna to accelerate its vaccine development process. The company plans to advance its mRNA-based vaccine into Phase 3 trials, following successful results from earlier stages. These trials will focus on demonstrating the vaccine’s effectiveness against H5N1 and other strains that pose a potential risk to human health. Moderna has indicated that it intends to present these results at an upcoming scientific conference.
“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,” stated 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.”
Avian influenza, commonly known as bird flu, refers to a variety of influenza strains that primarily affect birds but can also be transmitted to humans in rare instances. The H5N1 virus, in particular, has caused alarm due to its unpredictable nature and recent outbreaks. In fact, the U.S. has seen a rise in cases, with the first reported human death from H5N1 occurring in Louisiana earlier this month. While most transmissions have occurred between animals, the growing concern is that these viruses could mutate, leading to wider human-to-human transmission.
Moderna’s vaccine development will focus not only on H5N1 but also on additional subtypes of pandemic influenza. The goal is to create a vaccine that can be rapidly deployed if and when a bird flu outbreak becomes a global concern. “The project will provide additional support for late-stage development and licensure of pre-pandemic mRNA-based vaccines,” said Moderna. This includes expanding clinical studies to cover multiple subtypes of influenza, which could be critical in the event of a future outbreak.
Currently, the U.S. has vaccines for H5 viruses stored in the Strategic National Stockpile. However, these vaccines are made using older technology, which may not be as effective in preventing newer strains of the virus. By investing in cutting-edge mRNA technology, the government hopes to stay ahead of the curve and provide a more efficient and rapid response in the event of a pandemic.
In addition to this investment in vaccine development, the Biden administration has committed more than $300 million to monitor and manage bird flu outbreaks. These funds will be directed toward enhancing hospital preparedness, expanding surveillance systems, and increasing testing and awareness surrounding emerging pathogens.
While the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) currently considers the risk of widespread bird flu transmission among the general public to be low, the government is taking proactive measures. The collaboration between Moderna, the HHS, and other stakeholders underscores the importance of safeguarding human health, animal health, and food safety against potential future pandemics. The ongoing efforts reflect a larger commitment to not only combat the present risk but also prepare for future outbreaks, ensuring the U.S. is better equipped to respond swiftly and effectively.
