Vaccine development funding of $500 million pulled by RFK Jr.
The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), under the leadership of Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., has announced a halt in funding for around $500 million worth of mRNA vaccine development projects targeting respiratory viruses such as COVID-19 and the flu.
According to reports, this decision is based on the data showing that these vaccines are not effective in preventing infections in the upper respiratory tract, thereby limiting their ability to prevent transmission effectively. This move is part of a strategic shift away from mRNA technology projects for respiratory virus vaccines under the Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority (BARDA).
The affected projects are led by some of the nation's leading pharmaceutical companies, including Pfizer and Moderna. The latter's bird flu vaccine contract was already canceled earlier in May 2025.
While some contracts in the final stages will continue, no new mRNA vaccine development projects for these indications will be initiated. This decision has raised concerns among some experts about curtailing research into promising vaccine technologies. However, the official reasoning focuses on current data demonstrating the limitations of mRNA vaccines in controlling respiratory infections beyond severe disease reduction.
It is important to note that Kennedy's statement does not indicate any immediate plans or decisions regarding a shift away from mRNA vaccines. The statement does not provide any specific information on the projects or funding that might be affected by this potential shift.
mRNA vaccines have been credited with playing a significant role in slowing the 2020 coronavirus pandemic. The cancellation of these projects has sparked debates and discussions about the future of vaccine research and development.
In conclusion, the ineffectiveness of mRNA vaccines in providing effective protection against upper respiratory infection and transmission is the main reason for HHS halting funding of these mRNA vaccine projects, as announced by Robert F. Kennedy Jr. More updates on this issue are expected in the coming days.
Science has highlighted the limitations of mRNA vaccines in preventing upper respiratory infections, leading to the halt in their development for respiratory viruses like COVID-19 and the flu. This shift in strategy, spearheaded by the Department of Health and Wellness, raises questions about the future of health-and-wellness research in this area.
