HHS cancels nearly $500 million in federal funding for mRNA vaccines

Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. on Tuesday announced he had canceled nearly $500 million in federal projects and contracts that went toward mRNA vaccine development.

The move is part of the HHS' larger project to wind down mRNA vaccine activities under the Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority (BARDA). 

The decision comes after the department reviewed mRNA-related investments initiated during the COVID-19 pandemic, and includes the closure of 22 projects.

“We reviewed the science, listened to the experts, and acted,” Kennedy said in a statement. “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," he continued. “Let me be absolutely clear: HHS supports safe, effective vaccines for every American who wants them. That’s why we’re moving beyond the limitations of mRNA and investing in better solutions." 

The decision includes terminating BARDA's award to Moderna to develop an mRNA-based H5N1 vaccine, the cancelation of contracts with Emory University and Tiba Biotech and the restructuring of deals between the Defense Department and companies like AstraZeneca affecting "nucleic acid-based vaccine projects."

The department said some contracts and projects will be allowed to continue to preserve prior taxpayer investment, but no new mRNA-based projects will be initiated. Additional uses of mRNA technology within the department are not impacted.

Misty Severi is a news reporter for Just The News. You can follow her on X for more coverage.