RFK Jr. Halts $500 Million in mRNA Vaccine Research, Sparks Outcry

In a significant policy shift, Secretary of Health and Human Services Robert F. Kennedy Jr. yesterday announced the immediate cancellation of 22 projects, totaling $500 million, aimed at developing mRNA vaccines for respiratory viruses such as COVID-19, influenza, and H5N1 bird flu.

The decision, revealed in a statement and social media video on Tuesday, underscores Kennedy’s long-standing skepticism towards mRNA technology. He stated the department is “prioritizing the development of safer, broader vaccine strategies, like whole-virus vaccines and novel platforms that don’t collapse when viruses mutate,” to replace the halted programs.

This move is the latest in a series of actions by Kennedy, which include withdrawing recommendations for COVID-19 shots and dismissing the vaccine recommendation panel. He further elaborated at a news conference in Anchorage, Alaska, that the administration’s focus is now on a “universal vaccine” designed to mimic “natural immunity,” which he believes could be effective against both coronaviruses and flu.

The decision has drawn sharp criticism from leading infectious disease experts. Dr. Mike Osterholm of the University of Minnesota called it “the most dangerous decision in public health in my 50 years,” highlighting mRNA’s critical advantage in rapid production during new pandemics. Dr. Paul Offit from Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia echoed concerns, noting the “short-sighted” nature of the shelving, especially amidst looming bird flu pandemic worries, and crediting existing mRNA vaccines with saving millions of lives.

While the contracts with major pharmaceutical companies like Pfizer and Moderna are being terminated for these specific projects, HHS clarified that “other uses of mRNA technology within the department are not impacted by this announcement.” The department affirmed its support for “safe, effective vaccines for every American who wants them,” signaling a “shift in vaccine development priorities” towards what it deems “better solutions.”

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