Protecting America from Seasonal and Pandemic Influenza Act of 2026

The "Protecting America from Seasonal and Pandemic Influenza Act of 2026" seeks to bolster the nation's defenses against influenza, recognizing its significant health and economic impact. It establishes ambitious national goals, including the capacity to deliver initial doses of a finished pandemic influenza vaccine within 12 weeks of a new strain's emergence. Furthermore, the bill sets a target for developing a universal influenza vaccine within ten years of its enactment.

To achieve these goals, the legislation mandates the Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) and relevant agencies to publish detailed plans for vaccine development and delivery. It emphasizes strengthening the domestic vaccine supply chain through public-private partnerships, covering everything from ingredient production to fill-finish capacity and ancillary supplies like needles and syringes. The bill also requires full implementation of the National Influenza Vaccine Modernization Strategy 2020-2030.

The bill amends the Public Health Service Act to enhance the roles of the Assistant Secretary for Preparedness and Response (ASPR) and the Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority (BARDA). BARDA is directed to establish a pandemic influenza medical countermeasures program to support research, development, and readiness activities, including innovative technologies and the stockpiling of critical materials. This includes developing universal vaccines, novel antivirals, and rapid diagnostic tools.

The legislation promotes innovative approaches for influenza detection, prevention, and response, prioritizing pathogen-agnostic tools and rapid point-of-care diagnostics. It also addresses public confidence by requiring annual reports on communication strategies and establishing partnerships to combat misinformation and disinformation, particularly among vulnerable populations. A demonstration project will focus on increasing vaccine confidence among individuals with chronic illnesses.

To expand access, the bill mandates a "test-to-treat" demonstration project for influenza and authorizes grants to states for pharmacy personnel to administer vaccines, tests, and therapeutics. It directs the Strategic National Stockpile to dynamically manage and diversify influenza products, including antivirals and testing supplies. Finally, the bill authorizes significant appropriations for fiscal year 2027 and subsequent years, including over $1 billion for the Strategic National Stockpile and $270 million for universal flu vaccine research.