Project BioShield and the Biomedical Advanced Research Development Authority: A 10-Year Progress Report on Meeting US Preparedness Objectives for Threat Agents

Abstract

The Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority (BARDA) conducts the advanced research and development and procurement of vaccines, therapeutics, and diagnostics for chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear (CBRN) threats, pandemic influenza, and emerging infectious diseases. Since its inception in 2006, BARDA has played a critical role in partnering with industry to advance candidates in development toward US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval and then procuring them for potential use in a public health emergency. A decade into its existence, we now reflect on how BARDA has improved the preparedness posture of the United States against CBRN threat agents. BARDA has stockpiled or is the process of stockpiling 21 products for potential use in public health emergencies. Six products have achieved FDA approval or licensure. For several threat agents, the entire repertoire of medical countermeasures that have been procured and stockpiled should serve as a substantial deterrent to their future use in an attack.