Moderna Secures $590M in HHS Funding for Avian Influenza Vaccine Development

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has awarded Moderna approximately $590 million to accelerate the development of mRNA-based vaccines against avian influenza and other potential pandemic strains. This substantial funding, announced on January 17, 2025, builds upon a previous $176 million grant awarded in June 2024, signaling a heightened focus on preparedness against emerging viral threats.

Expanding the Pandemic Preparedness Arsenal

Moderna's latest funding comes through the Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority (BARDA), an arm of HHS dedicated to countering public health emergencies. The primary objective is to expedite the development of vaccines targeting H5N1 and other avian influenza strains currently circulating in wild birds, poultry, and cattle, which pose a potential pandemic risk.

The biotechnology company is already making strides in this area, with its lead candidate mRNA-1018 poised to enter Phase 3 trials. This vaccine, designed to protect against H5 and H7 avian influenza viruses, has shown promising results in initial Phase 1/2 studies, with detailed data expected to be presented at an upcoming scientific conference.

Broadening the Scope of Influenza Protection

Beyond the immediate focus on H5N1, the HHS funding will support Moderna's efforts to develop and test vaccines against a wider array of influenza subtypes with pandemic potential. Specifically, the company plans to:

1. Conduct a Phase 3 trial for an H7N9 influenza vaccine
2. Design and initiate Phase 1 studies for up to four additional novel pandemic influenza vaccines
3. Expand clinical data supporting the use of mRNA vaccines for emerging influenza strains

This comprehensive approach aims to create a robust foundation of data that will enable rapid response to various influenza threats as they emerge.

Public Health Implications and Current Risk Assessment

While the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) currently assesses the public health risk of H5 avian flu strains as low, recent developments have underscored the importance of vigilance. Since early 2024, there have been 67 confirmed cases of H5 bird flu in humans in the United States, including one fatality in Louisiana involving an individual over 65 with underlying health conditions.

HHS Secretary Xavier Becerra emphasized the unpredictable nature of avian flu variants and their potential danger to humans, stating, "Accelerating the development of new vaccines will allow us to stay ahead and ensure that Americans have the tools they need to stay safe."

The CDC continues to monitor the situation closely, working with states to track human exposures to infected animals. While human-to-human transmission has not been documented in the current outbreak, health officials stress the importance of preparedness for potential mutations that could increase transmissibility.