Emergent wins $250M for medical countermeasures

Emergent BioSolutions has secured over $250 million in contract modifications from the Administration for Strategic Preparedness and Response (ASPR) to supply millions of doses of various medical countermeasures designed to combat biological threats such as anthrax, smallpox, and botulism.

The breakdown of these awards is as follows:

1. Cyfendus Anthrax Vaccine: Emergent BioSolutions has received $30 million to deliver Cyfendus, a two-dose anthrax vaccine intended for post-exposure prophylaxis in individuals aged 18 and older. The collaboration between the Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority (BARDA) and Emergent began in 2016, focusing on the clinical development and manufacturing of this vaccine. This partnership led to the vaccine’s FDA approval in July 2023. Following this milestone, BARDA awarded Emergent a $75 million contract option to procure the vaccine.

2. ACAM2000 Smallpox Vaccine: The company has been granted $99.9 million to supply ACAM2000, a smallpox vaccine for high-risk individuals. This vaccine is part of Emergent’s existing 10-year contracts with ASPR, underpinning a long-term commitment to addressing smallpox threats.

3. VIGIV and BAT Therapies: Emergent has been awarded two new contract options totaling $122.9 million. These funds will be used to supply Vaccinia Immune Globulin Intravenous (VIGIV), which is used to treat complications arising from smallpox vaccination, and Botulism Antitoxin (BAT), designed to treat symptomatic botulism. These products are scheduled for delivery throughout this year and extending into early 2025 under the pre-existing contracts with ASPR.

Emergent has faced several challenges during the pandemic. Notably, the company experienced a significant vaccine batch failure and underwent scrutiny from the FDA, which resulted in the scaling down of operations at its Rockville, Maryland, and Canton, Massachusetts facilities. This operational downsizing also included the elimination of the Chief Operating Officer (COO) position, leading to the departure of Adam Havey last year.

Following the sale of its travel health business to Bavarian Nordic last year, Emergent has shifted its focus back to its core products. This strategic redirection emphasizes the production of essential medical countermeasures and products like Narcan nasal spray, which is vital for addressing opioid overdoses.

In summary, the recent contract modifications reinforce Emergent BioSolutions' role in providing critical medical countermeasures against biological threats. Despite facing operational challenges, the company remains committed to developing and supplying essential vaccines and treatments that enhance national health security.

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