Moderna's mRNA flu vaccine gets $176m funding

Moderna has secured a $176 million grant through the Rapid Response Partnership Vehicle (RRPV) Consortium aimed at accelerating the development of mRNA-based vaccines for pandemic influenza. The RRPV Consortium, funded by the Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority (BARDA) and operating under the US Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), will use this financial support to advance the late-stage development of a pre-pandemic vaccine targeting the H5 influenza virus.

The H5 subtype is particularly notable for its ability to cause severe avian influenza, which poses significant risks of transmission to humans. This project not only focuses on the H5 virus but also includes measures to better prepare for and respond to future public health crises.

In 2023, Moderna initiated a Phase I/II clinical trial to evaluate the safety and immune response of its experimental pandemic influenza vaccine, mRNA-1018, in adults over the age of 18. This study is assessing vaccine candidates for both the H5 and H7 strains of avian influenza. The results, expected in 2024, will be crucial in planning the Phase III development of the vaccine.

Stéphane Bancel, CEO of Moderna, highlighted the benefits of mRNA vaccine technology, noting its efficacy, rapid development, scalable production, and reliability in combating infectious disease outbreaks, as evidenced during the Covid-19 pandemic. He expressed satisfaction in continuing the partnership with BARDA to advance the development of mRNA-based pandemic influenza vaccines, thereby supporting global public health preparedness against potential outbreaks.

This initiative's funding comes from federal funds provided by the Department of Health and Human Services, the ASPR, and BARDA. In addition to this, in June 2024, Moderna received US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval for its mRNA-based respiratory syncytial virus vaccine, mRESVIA, for adults aged 60 and above.

These efforts underscore Moderna's ongoing commitment to leveraging mRNA technology for public health. By focusing on mRNA vaccine development, the company aims to offer more effective, rapidly produced, and scalable solutions to combat infectious diseases, contributing to global health security.