The US Health and Human Services (HHS) has decided to “wind down” its investment in mRNA vaccine development, instead choosing to fund other vaccine platforms through the Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority (BARDA). The decision comes as a surprise, with HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr stating that the agency will terminate 22 mRNA vaccine projects due to concerns over their effectiveness against upper respiratory infections such as Covid-19 and flu.
However, multiple experts have spoken out against this decision, citing the proven safety and effectiveness of mRNA vaccines during the Covid-19 pandemic. Dr. Peter Hotez, a pediatrician who directs the Center for Vaccine Development at Texas Children’s Hospital, described the move as “promoting pseudoscience” and weakening the nation’s biosecurity.
In contrast, Dr. Paul Offit, a vaccine scientist at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, emphasized that mRNA vaccines have been remarkably safe and effective in preventing severe disease and death from Covid-19. If another pandemic were to occur, he warned, the US would be “behind the eight ball” without continued investment in mRNA vaccine research.
The move has also sparked concern among industry experts, with Moderna spokesman Kelly Cunningham stating that his company is not aware of any new contract cancellations by BARDA involving Moderna. The decision is seen as a significant shift in HHS’ approach to vaccine development and could have far-reaching implications for the nation’s biosecurity.
Source: https://edition.cnn.com/2025/08/05/health/hhs-slashes-funding-for-mrna-vaccine-development