Trump Administration Fast-Tracks Controversial Self-Amplifying mRNA Vaccine for H5N1 Bird Flu

Photo By Al Drago/CQ Roll Call

The Trump administration has granted Fast Track designation to a groundbreaking — and controversial — self-amplifying mRNA (sa-mRNA) vaccine candidate targeting the H5N1 avian influenza virus.

The vaccine, ARCT-2304, developed by Arcturus Therapeutics, is now in Phase 1 trials and has been positioned by federal health authorities as a front-line defense against a potential bird flu pandemic.

The designation, announced April 10, was awarded by the U.S....