The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services has notified Moderna (MRNA) that it will terminate funding for the late-stage development of pre-pandemic influenza vaccines, along with the right to purchase them. Meanwhile, Moderna said it will explore alternatives for late-stage development and manufacturing of the H5 program consistent with the company's strategic commitment to pandemic preparedness.
After a rigorous review, HHS reportedly concluded that further investment in Moderna's H5N1 mRNA vaccine is neither scientifically nor ethically justifiable. HHS Communications Director Andrew Nixon reportedly stated that the decision was based on careful assessment of available data and broader public health consideration.
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Business News
April 17, 2026 15:29 ET The ongoing conflict in the Middle East continues to raise concerns for policymakers who worry about the impact of the supply shock and high energy prices on the real economy. Producer price data and various survey results on the housing market were the main news from the U.S. this week. In Europe, industrial production data for the euro area gained attention. GDP figures out of China and the policy move by the Singapore central bank were in focus in Asia.