U.S. Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. cut nearly $500 million in federal funding for mRNA vaccine research on Tuesday, drastically shaking up the U.S. scientific and public health communities.
The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) said in a news release that the canceled contracts and grants were focused on developing mRNA vaccines for respiratory viruses, including COVID-19 and influenza.
The scope of the cuts is extensive, ending 22 vaccine development initiatives managed by the Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority (BARDA).
Proposals from major pharmaceutical firms, including Pfizer and Sanofi Pasteur, as well as a now-terminated bird flu contract with Moderna, are among the projects affected.
The department noted that a few BARDA contracts in late stages will continue to avoid a waste of taxpayer funds.
Rather than continue the research on mRNA vaccines, Kennedy has called for BARDA to shift into research about more verified projects.
The Health Secretary said in the news release that the service “supports safe, effective vaccines for every American who wants them,” further noting that the HHS is “moving beyond the limitations of mRNA and investing in better solutions.”
“We reviewed the science, listened to the experts, and acted,” he added.
“BARDA is terminating 22 mRNA vaccine development investments because the data show these vaccines fail to protect effectively against upper respiratory infections like COVID and flu. We’re shifting that funding toward safer, broader vaccine platforms that remain effective even as viruses mutate.”
The HHS added that future investments would favor traditional vaccine technologies, such as whole-cell or whole-virus platforms, despite scientific concerns about their limitations and slower adaptation.
Despite the approval from Kennedy to make these cuts, many from within the scientific community have spoken out against the decision.
Former BARDA Director Rick Bright, who managed the authority from 2016 to 2020, wrote in a text message to say that this research “isn’t just about vaccines.”
“It’s about whether we’ll be ready when the next crisis hits. Cutting mRNA development now puts every American at greater risk,” he wrote, per NBC News.
“The Covid pandemic showed us what’s possible when science moves fast. Dismantling that momentum now is like disbanding the fire department because the fire’s out.”