Moderna has received a $176 million investment from BARDA to develop an mRNA-based pandemic influenza vaccine targeting the H5N1 bird flu strain affecting US dairy cattle.

Phase 3 trials for the vaccine are set to begin in 2025, following previous Phase 1/2 trials for H5 and H7 bird flu varieties.

Three dairy workers have tested positive for the virus, but there is no evidence of human-to-human transmission.

Health officials stress the safety of the commercial milk supply, as pasteurization eliminates the virus.

Criticism has been directed at the slow and inadequate response to the outbreak, with calls for more transparency in vaccine distribution.

Moderna's stock has surged by 17% in 2024, reflecting confidence in their ability to combat infectious disease outbreaks.