HHS Cancels mRNA Vaccine Development Investments

U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services, Robert F. Kennedy Jr., announced on Tuesday the decision to cancel investments and contracts related to mRNA vaccine development.

“There’s a department within HHS known as the Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Agency, or BARDA,” Kennedy Jr. explained. “BARDA is at the forefront of our scientific research, funding initiatives that develop vaccines, drugs, diagnostics, and other tools necessary to address emerging health threats.”

He further disclosed that, “In recent weeks, BARDA has evaluated 22 investments in mRNA vaccine development and has begun the process of canceling them.” The focus of these vaccines has largely been on flu and COVID-19, but Kennedy Jr. commented that mRNA vaccines haven’t proven effective against viruses that affect the upper respiratory system.

He elaborated, stating, “The issue is that mRNAs typically encode only a minor section of the viral protein, usually just a single antigen. A single mutation can render the vaccine ineffective, which can lead to what’s termed antigen shifts. This scenario can inadvertently foster new mutations and potentially prolong the pandemic.” Kennedy Jr. pointed out that “Millions—maybe even you or someone you know—caught the Omicron variant despite being vaccinated due to the limitations of mRNA vaccines concerning single mutations.”

Furthermore, he emphasized that HHS assessed that the risks associated with these respiratory viruses outweighed the benefits. This conclusion came after thorough reviews and consultations with experts from the National Institutes of Health and the Food and Drug Administration.

“After an extensive review, BARDA initiated the termination of these 22 contracts, which amount to just under $500 million,” he added.

The Secretary indicated that his department will concentrate on developing safer and more comprehensive vaccine strategies. These would include whole virus vaccines or alternate platforms that remain effective despite viral mutations, as a way to replace the troubled mRNA initiatives.

“I want to be perfectly clear—HHS supports safe and effective vaccines for all Americans who seek them,” Kennedy Jr. stated. “That’s why we’re investing in better solutions beyond just the respiratory viruses or mRNA.”

In light of the COVID-19 pandemic, some U.S. lawmakers, media, and pharmaceutical representatives have praised new mRNA vaccines as “safe and effective.” However, on June 25th, the FDA updated safety requirements for Pfizer and Moderna, highlighting risks of myocarditis and pericarditis associated with their mRNA COVID-19 vaccines.

The FDA remarked that these updates “include new safety information regarding the risks of myocarditis and pericarditis following administration” of the vaccines. They also stressed the importance of manufacturers providing updates on these risks, particularly emphasizing that young men aged 12 to 24 may be at the highest risk for these conditions post-vaccination.