U.S. Awards Moderna $590 Million for H5N1 Bird Flu Vaccine mRNA-1018

Jan 17, 2025, 09:08 PM

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has awarded Moderna Inc. $590 million to advance the development of a bird flu vaccine, specifically targeting H5N1 Avian Flu. This funding, adding to the $176 million awarded last year, is part of a broader effort by the Biden-Harris Administration to address emerging disease threats, including avian influenza. The investment aims to enhance disease surveillance, strengthen laboratory testing, and ensure ongoing monitoring of the virus's impact. Moderna's mRNA-based vaccine, mRNA-1018, is set to advance into a phase 3 trial following positive results in earlier phases. The initiative reflects a commitment to accelerating the development of new vaccines to stay ahead of potential pandemics.