Journal of Vaccines & Vaccination

BARDA�s role in advancing medical countermeasure development

2^nd International Conference on Vaccines and Vaccination

August 20-22, 2012 Hilton Chicago/Northbrook, USA

Gerald R. Kovacs

Scientific Tracks Abstracts: J Vaccines Vaccin

Abstract:

B ARDA�s mission is to develop and procure medical countermeasures (vaccines, drugs, therapies, and diagnostic tools) that address the public health and medical consequences of chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear (CBRN) accidents, incidents and attacks, pandemic influenza, and emerging infectious diseases. BARDA has developed a comprehensive approach towards developing medical countermeasures that are safe and effective, yet provide the US government with maximum cost savings and flexibility in the event of an emergency. BARDA published its 5-year Strategic Plan in 2011. An update will be provided on: 1) existing and needed products in the pipeline, 2) establishment of �core� services to assist product developers, 3) public-private partnerships, and the 4) establishment of Centers for Innovation in Advanced Development and Manufacturing infrastructure that will be used to respond to pandemic influenza and CBRN threats.

Biography :

At BARDA, Dr. Kovacs focuses on addressing the major scientific and regulatory challenges of developing medical countermeasures against CBRN threats. He is responsible for the development, implementation, and oversight of programs authorized by the Project BioShield Act of 2004 and the Pandemic and All Hazards Preparedness Act of 2006. Dr. Kovacs received his doctorate degree from the Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics at Texas A&M University, and subsequently trained as a post-doctoral fellow at Harvard Medical School and the National Institutes of Health.