US EditionRFK Jr cancels $500m in mRNA vaccine development in the US
UNITED STATES, AUG 6 – Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. halted 22 mRNA vaccine projects worth nearly $500 million, citing ineffectiveness against respiratory viruses and shifting focus to broader vaccine platforms.
- On August 5, 2025, U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. announced the cancellation of nearly $500 million in federal vaccine funding affecting 22 mRNA vaccine development projects targeting respiratory viruses including COVID-19 and influenza.
- Reflecting his skepticism, Kennedy paused a $240 million COVID pill project and $700 million in Moderna flu vaccine funding earlier in 2025.
- Insiders warn that around 22 BARDA-backed projects led by Pfizer and Moderna are affected, with executives warning delays could hinder innovation and shares dipping, according to MPR News.
- Critics caution that ousted HHS vaccine advisory panel members argue the move abandons rigorous science amid rising H5N1 bird flu threats.
- Future allocations include protein-based and live-attenuated vaccines as broader, safer strategies, and Kennedy’s team signals upcoming reviews of Gavi.
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By MELISSA GOLDIN Although mRNA vaccines saved millions of lives during the COVID-19 pandemic, U.S. Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. incorrectly argued they are ineffective to justify the Department of Health and Human Service’s recent decision to cancel $500 million in government-funded research projects to develop new vaccines using the technology. Related Articles Trump says he plans to put a 100% tariff on computer chips,…
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FACT FOCUS: RFK Jr.‘s reasons for cutting mRNA vaccine not supported by evidence
Although mRNA vaccines saved millions of lives during the COVID-19 pandemic, U.S. Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. incorrectly argued they are ineffective to justify the Department of Health and Human Service's recent decision to cancel $500 million in government-funded…
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