The Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations (CEPI) has committed $60 million to accelerate the development of vaccines against the Bundibugyo ebolavirus. Under these plans, CEPI will provide up to $50 million to US-based Moderna to advance its mRNA vaccine candidate through preclinical and clinical phases.

“We believe our mRNA platform can play an important role in responding rapidly to emerging infectious disease threats,” said Stéphane Bancel, CEO of Moderna. The company will use this funding to scale up manufacturing and prepare for large-scale trials if the early tests are successful.

The Bundibugyo ebolavirus is a close cousin to the Ebola virus, with similar symptoms but less virulence. The current outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo is causing significant concern due to its rapid spread and high mortality rate.

By leveraging mRNA technology, which was instrumental in developing the COVID-19 vaccines, Moderna aims to respond swiftly to this emerging threat. This approach could set a new precedent for future outbreaks, potentially shortening the time between disease identification and vaccine availability.