Race for Ebola vaccine gets $60m boost
The Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations (CEPI) is providing $60 million to Moderna and other groups to accelerate the development of an Ebola Bundibugyo vaccine. The initiative aims to address the current outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo and Uganda.
Why it matters
Funding vaccine development for lethal viruses is critical for global health security and preventing the spread of regional outbreaks.
Global health organisation CEPI will give roughly $60 million to Moderna and two other groups to accelerate the development of shots against Ebola Bundibugyo, the deadly virus that has swept through eastern Democratic Republic of Congo. The Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations was one of the early investors that helped to develop a vaccine at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. Richard Hatchett, head of CEPI, told Reuters on Monday it was possible to get Ebola Bundibugyo (BDBV) vaccines ready for trials within a couple of months. There are currently no approved BDBV vaccines or treatments. Hatchett said the promise of vaccines on a not infinitely distant horizon should help to start conversations about who would buy them and fund any roll-out.
The article provides factual reporting on health funding and public health emergencies.
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