Additional Coverage:
- Anticipating a major bird flu crisis, the U.S. government just awarded $176 million for a vaccine (newsbreak.com)
Amid the mounting bird flu episodes affecting over 141 flocks in 12 states, the possibility of a pandemic reminiscent of COVID-19 is on the horizon. The US government is proactively addressing this threat by funding Moderna with $176 million to develop a vaccine against the H5N1 virus, utilizing the groundbreaking mRNA technology from the COVID-19 vaccine efforts.
This investment will bolster Moderna’s preliminary efforts in testing the new mRNA vaccine, with additional financial support provided by the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) via the Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority (BARDA).
HHS Secretary Xavier Becerra expressed that lessons from the COVID-19 crisis are guiding current preparations to enhance public health responses to future pandemics. “Our ongoing work with top scientists and clinicians underpins the Biden-Harris Administration’s dedication to fortifying our defense against pandemics and other public health crises,” Becerra stated.
Indeed, the versatility of influenza vaccine development allows scientists to shift focus between different flu strains as needed, although the immediate concern remains the H5N1 strain. This particular strain has caused outbreaks primarily in US dairy farms in 2024, with infections reported in three individuals who exhibited only mild symptoms. However, the medical community remains vigilant, as this strain’s ability to jump from birds to mammals signifies a potential for significant human transmission and mutation.
Highlighting the gravity of the situation, Dr. Tom Peacock, a virologist from Imperial College London and the Pirbright Institute, noted the extensive interaction between humans and cattle compared to other animals like minks or sea lions, indicating a wider risk of exposure and transmission to humans.