Emergent BioSolutions Inc. (NYSE: EBS) has announced a $30 million contract modification from the Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority (BARDA) to supply Cyfendus® (anthrax vaccine adsorbed, adjuvanted). This contract modification follows a previous $50 million contract modification in December 2024. Cyfendus® is a two-dose anthrax vaccine for post-exposure prophylaxis use, approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration in July 2023.
The deliveries for the $30 million contract modification are expected to begin this calendar year and be completed by March 2026. This contract aims to help ensure the availability of medical countermeasures, such as the Cyfendus® vaccine, to safeguard civilian populations against the potential threat of anthrax.
Anthrax is classified as a tier 1 biological threat due to its potential for use in bioterrorist incidents and its threat to public health and national security. The Cyfendus® vaccine is indicated for post-exposure prophylaxis of anthrax disease following suspected or confirmed exposure to Bacillus anthracis in individuals 18 through 65 years of age when given with recommended antibacterial drugs.
It's important to note that Cyfendus® should not be administered to individuals with a history of a severe allergic reaction following a previous dose of Cyfendus® or any component of the vaccine. Additionally, appropriate medical treatment must be available to manage possible anaphylactic reactions following administration of Cyfendus®.
The most common injection-site adverse reactions reported were tenderness, pain, arm motion limitation, warmth, induration, itching, swelling, and erythema/redness. The most common systemic adverse reactions were muscle aches, tiredness, and headache.
The ongoing engagement with the U.S. government reflects Emergent's commitment to supporting national security priorities and leveraging a U.S.-based supply chain for its anthrax vaccines. This latest contract modification signifies an important milestone in Emergent's efforts to contribute to public health preparedness and response. The market has reacted to these announcements by moving the company's shares -0.66% to a price of $7.58. For more information, read the company's full 8-K submission here.
