HHS halts $500M in mRNA vaccine projects under Kennedy’s directive

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) is ending all mRNA vaccine development funded by the Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority (BARDA), affecting 22 projects worth $500 million.

Why it matters: This marks a major shift in U.S. vaccine policy driven by Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., known for his anti-vaccine stance. It risks undermining progress in pandemic preparedness and scientific consensus on mRNA vaccine safety and efficacy.

Backstory: Since taking office, Kennedy has targeted vaccine programs, removing all 17 members of the CDC’s vaccine advisory panel and reportedly curtailing NIH funding related to mRNA vaccines and vaccine hesitancy research.

• A Senate report recently raised concerns about how myocarditis risks were communicated during the Biden administration, but experts note the risks are greater from COVID itself than from vaccination.

Zoom in: Contracts terminated include those with Moderna, Emory, and Tiba Biotech. The decision also affects mRNA work from contracts with Luminary Labs, ModeX and Seqirus. Contracts nearing completion — such as Arcturus’ for a bird flu mRNA vaccine and Amplitude’s for a trans-amplifying RNA therapeutic platform — will be allowed to run their course.

• The HHS has also instructed BARDA Ventures, an investment fund managed by the agency, to stop all mRNA-related equity investments.

Big picture: The U.S. is backing away from a proven vaccine platform despite mRNA's rapid success during COVID-19. While Kennedy claims safety concerns, the scientific consensus maintains mRNA vaccines are safe and effective, with studies continuing to monitor long-term effects.