Moderna is set to receive $590m in funding from the US Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to expedite the development of mRNA-based pandemic influenza vaccines.

The initiative is part of a broader effort to enhance the US's preparedness for future infectious diseases.

The substantial investment was funded by the part of HHS Administration for Strategic Preparedness and Response (ASPR) and the Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority (BARDA), through the Rapid Response Partnership Vehicle (RRPV) Consortium.

The funds aim to expedite the late-stage development and licensing of the company's pre-pandemic vaccines.

The agreement will enable the expansion of trials for up to five additional pandemic influenza subtypes.

Moderna is currently focusing on the development of an H5N1 mRNA influenza vaccine, which aligns with the strains present in cattle and birds.

In 2023, the company commenced a Phase I/II trial to assess the immune response and safety of its pandemic influenza vaccine, mRNA-1018, in adults.

The trial targets H5 and H7 avian influenza viruses. Following encouraging preliminary outcomes, the company is preparing for Phase III. It is also set to design and conduct a Phase III clinical study for an H7N9 mRNA pandemic influenza vaccine, which could become the first licensed vaccine for H7N9 if successful.

BARDA's collaboration with the company began in 2023 to create mRNA vaccines for potential public health emergencies due to influenza viruses, such as avian influenza A(H5N1).

The company plans to design up to four new pandemic influenza vaccines and test them in Phase I trials.

In November 2024, Moderna gained approval from Health Canada for its mRNA vaccine, mRESVIA, aimed at preventing lower respiratory tract disease caused by the respiratory syncytial virus in those aged 60 and above.