Urgent: $17 Million Boost for Smallpox Defense – Emergent BioSolutions Expands Antiviral Production
Gaithersburg, MD – September 15, 2025 – In a critical move to fortify national biodefense capabilities, Emergent BioSolutions (NYSE: EBS) has announced a $17 million contract modification with the Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority (BARDA), part of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). This funding will directly support the increased production and supply of TEMBEXA® (Brincidofovir), an oral antiviral suspension designed to combat smallpox. This is breaking news with significant implications for public health security.
Securing the Supply Chain for a Potential Outbreak
The contract modification builds upon existing agreements (CLIN0004A and CLIN0005A) under Emergent’s 10-year partnership with BARDA, and specifically focuses on scaling up the availability of TEMBEXA®’s oral suspension formulation. This is particularly important as oral suspensions offer a vital treatment option for vulnerable populations – the elderly and those with dysphagia – who may struggle with traditional pill-based medications. The FDA recently approved the expansion of TEMBEXA® production, paving the way for this increased capacity.
“Our newly acquired contract modifications and ongoing collaboration with BARDA and the procurement of TEMBEXA® (Brincidofovir) oral suspension further underlines the importance of providing a continuous supply of key measures needed to respond to smallpox disease to the vulnerable patient population during a potential outbreak,” stated Paul Williams, Senior Vice President, Head of Product Business, Head of Global Government and Public Affairs at Emergent. “We are proud to increase production to meet the urgent needs of our customers while strengthening our manufacturing and supply chain processes in the United States and as a trusted partner to support the U.S. government to address this serious national security and health threat.”
Why Smallpox Preparedness Remains a Priority in 2025
While smallpox was declared eradicated globally in 1980, the threat of re-emergence – whether through accidental release or deliberate bioterrorism – remains a serious concern for public health officials. The U.S. maintains a strategic national stockpile of smallpox vaccine, but antiviral treatments like TEMBEXA® offer a crucial secondary layer of defense, particularly for individuals who cannot receive the vaccine due to medical conditions.
The development of TEMBEXA® represents a significant advancement in antiviral technology. Brincidofovir, the active ingredient, is a lipid conjugate of cidofovir, designed to improve drug delivery and reduce toxicity compared to earlier generations of antiviral medications. This improved profile makes it a more viable option for a wider range of patients.
The Role of BARDA and the ASPR in Biodefense
BARDA, under the umbrella of the Administration for Strategic Preparedness and Response (ASPR) within HHS, plays a pivotal role in preparing for and responding to public health emergencies. Its mission is to accelerate the development, procurement, and delivery of medical countermeasures – vaccines, diagnostics, and therapeutics – against a range of threats, including chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear (CBRN) agents. Contracts like the one awarded to Emergent BioSolutions are central to this effort. Understanding the work of BARDA is key to understanding the broader landscape of US biodefense strategy.
Looking Ahead: Strengthening Public Health Infrastructure
This $17 million contract modification isn’t just about securing a supply of one antiviral; it’s a signal of a continued commitment to strengthening the nation’s public health infrastructure and preparedness. Investing in domestic manufacturing capabilities, like those of Emergent BioSolutions, reduces reliance on foreign supply chains and ensures a more resilient response to future health crises. As we navigate an increasingly complex global landscape, proactive investment in biodefense remains paramount. Stay informed on the latest developments in public health and biosecurity at archyde.com, your source for timely and insightful news.