“Federal Funding Boosts Preparedness Against Bird Flu Outbreaks
ABC NEWS – Federal health officials have allocated $72 million to vaccine manufacturers to ensure the readiness of current bird flu vaccines in case of necessity. Although there are no current vaccination recommendations for the U.S. population, the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services (HHS) highlighted that this measure is taken as a precautionary step.
This funding will enable pharmaceutical companies CSL Seqirus, Sanofi, and GSK to undergo the ‘fill and finish’ process, which involves transferring vaccines from bulk storage into ready-to-use vials or pre-filled syringes. This initiative aims to have vaccines readily available for distribution if the need arises.
David Boucher, the director of infectious disease preparedness and response at HHS’ Administration for Strategic Preparedness and Response (ASPR), emphasized that these actions will enhance the country’s preparedness against novel influenza, specifically H5. He underscored the importance of the rapid development and distribution of vaccines for effective response to public health emergencies.
Health officials had previously filled approximately 5 million vaccine doses, and with the new funding, they anticipate doubling the stockpile of ready-to-use vaccines. By the end of the first quarter of calendar year 2025, it is expected that over 10 million doses will be filled and finished, pending ongoing manufacturing schedules with industry partners.
Additionally, companies such as Pfizer and Moderna are actively engaged in developing an mRNA bird flu vaccine, utilizing the same technology employed in their COVID-19 vaccines. While there have been 16 confirmed bird flu cases in the U.S. this year, the overall risk to the general public remains low, as reported by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
Dawn O’Connell, assistant secretary for preparedness and response at HHS, emphasized the importance of such funding in enhancing the country’s access to pandemic influenza vaccines, ensuring readiness for current and future needs. Sanofi is also gearing up to produce an egg-based influenza vaccine for H5 influenza, a bird flu strain, if required.
Dr. Gary Disbrow, director and deputy assistant secretary for preparedness and response at HHS’ Center for Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority (BARDA), highlighted the proactive approach being taken due to the potential spread of influenza A (H5) virus from domesticated animals to humans. In light of this, efforts are being made to increase the availability of vaccines as a precautionary measure for any future needs.”
