Moderna’s bird flu vaccine shows promise, but US government pulls funding

US biotech Moderna (Nasdaq: MRNA) has reported encouraging early-stage results from a trial of its experimental vaccine for avian influenza, just as a significant federal funding agreement was unexpectedly withdrawn.

The investigational shot, known as mRNA-1018, is being developed as a countermeasure against H5 avian flu viruses. In a Phase I/II trial involving around 300 healthy adults, the vaccine prompted a strong immune response. According to Moderna, nearly all participants had protective levels of antibodies following the two-dose regimen, with a substantial rise in antibody titers from baseline. Reported side effects were generally mild or moderate.

Moderna chief executive Stéphane Bancel said the data “underscore the critical role mRNA technology has played as a countermeasure to emerging health threats.” He acknowledged that the loss of government backing introduces uncertainty but said the company would consider other options to continue the program.