Moderna Awarded BARDA Grant to Speed Up mRNA Flu Vaccine Development

Moderna, Inc., a leader in mRNA technology, announced a significant development in its efforts to combat pandemic influenza. The company received a $176 million award through the Rapid Response Partnership Vehicle (RRPV), a consortium financed by the Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority (BARDA), which operates under the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services' Administration for Strategic Preparedness and Response (ASPR). This funding aims to fast-track the late-stage development of an mRNA-based vaccine for pandemic influenza, specifically targeting the H5 influenza virus.

The H5 influenza virus is known for causing a highly contagious and severe disease in birds, known as avian influenza, which also poses a potential risk to humans. The funding agreement includes additional provisions to prepare for and respond quickly to future public health emergencies.

Stéphane Bancel, the CEO of Moderna, emphasized the benefits of mRNA vaccine technology, which offers advantages in terms of efficacy, rapid development, and scalable and reliable production. He highlighted the success of mRNA vaccines during the COVID-19 pandemic and expressed satisfaction with continuing collaboration with BARDA to accelerate the development of mRNA-based vaccines for pandemic influenza. This initiative is part of a broader effort to support global public health preparedness against potential outbreaks.

In 2023, Moderna began a Phase 1/2 clinical trial to assess the safety and immune response of its investigational pandemic influenza vaccine, labeled mRNA-1018, in healthy adults aged 18 and older. This study includes vaccine candidates targeting both H5 and H7 avian influenza viruses. The results of this study, expected in 2024, will guide the planning for Phase 3 development.

The project is being funded with federal funds from the Department of Health and Human Services, specifically through the Administration for Strategic Preparedness and Response and the Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority, under the transaction number 75A50123D00005.

Moderna has been at the forefront of mRNA medicine, revolutionizing how medicines are created and transforming treatment and prevention methods for various diseases. The company's mRNA platform has enabled the rapid development of therapeutics and vaccines for a range of conditions, including infectious diseases, immuno-oncology, rare diseases, and autoimmune conditions. Over the past decade, Moderna has built a unique culture and global team driven by values aimed at responsibly changing the future of human health through mRNA medicines.