Emergent BioSolutions Secures $250M+ in Contracts for Key Medical Supplies to U.S. Government

Emergent BioSolutions Inc., a Gaithersburg, Md.-based company, announced on July 2, 2024, that it has secured over $250 million in contract extensions from the Administration for Strategic Preparedness and Response (ASPR), part of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). These modifications will facilitate the continuous supply and accumulation of crucial medical countermeasures (MCMs) aimed at combating biological threats like anthrax, smallpox, and botulism.

The updated agreements involve four key awards. Firstly, a contract modification worth $30 million will be used to supply CYFENDUS® (Anthrax Vaccine Adsorbed, Adjuvanted) within the year. This vaccine, previously known as AV7909, is administered in two doses for post-exposure prophylaxis in individuals aged 18 and above. This funding comes from Emergent's ongoing 10-year contract with the Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority (BARDA).

Secondly, $99.9 million has been allocated to supply ACAM2000® (Smallpox (Vaccinia) Vaccine, Live) this year. ACAM2000® is approved for active immunization against smallpox for individuals at high risk of infection, as part of Emergent's existing 10-year contract with ASPR.

The remaining $122.9 million consists of two new contract options. These funds will be used to provide the Strategic National Stockpile with VIGIV® [Vaccinia Immune Globulin Intravenous (Human)] and BAT® [Botulism Antitoxin Heptavalent (A, B, C, D, E, F, G) – (Equine)] drug products. VIGIV® is utilized for treating complications related to smallpox vaccination, while BAT® is used for the treatment of symptomatic botulism in both adults and pediatric patients. Both products fall under Emergent’s existing 10-year contracts with ASPR.

Paul Williams, Senior Vice President and Head of Products at Emergent, stated, "Securing multiple contract modifications with the U.S. government for our medical countermeasure products affirms that Emergent is a trusted biodefense partner and demonstrates the strength and sustainment of our product portfolio.” He further emphasized Emergent's commitment to fulfill preparedness and stockpiling efforts both in the U.S. and internationally.

Emergent BioSolutions focuses on the development, manufacturing, and supply of MCMs for both military and civilian populations. The types and volumes of products maintained in a stockpile are determined by the needs of the population, the available products to meet threats, and government resources and priorities.

CYFENDUS® is an anthrax vaccine indicated for post-exposure prophylaxis for individuals aged 18 to 65 following exposure to Bacillus anthracis, in conjunction with recommended antibacterial drugs. The efficacy of the vaccine is based solely on animal model studies.

ACAM2000® is the primary smallpox vaccine designated for bioterrorism emergencies, stockpiled in the U.S. and internationally. It is indicated for individuals at high risk of smallpox infection. The vaccine carries warnings for individuals with severe immunodeficiency and has several potential severe side effects, including myocarditis and encephalitis.

VIGIV® is indicated for a range of vaccinia-related conditions and is contraindicated in certain individuals, such as those with a history of severe reactions to immune globulin preparations. The product carries risks including hypersensitivity, renal dysfunction, and thrombosis.

BAT® is a mixture of immune globulin fragments used to treat symptomatic botulism following exposure to botulinum neurotoxin serotypes A-G. The effectiveness of BAT® is based on animal studies. It carries warnings for severe hypersensitivity reactions and potential interactions with blood glucose testing systems.

Emergent BioSolutions is dedicated to protecting and enhancing life, developing and manufacturing vaccines and therapeutics for public health threats. They also provide contract development and manufacturing services for pharmaceutical and biotech customers.