The US Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has canceled $500 million in funding for mRNA vaccines, a move that has alarmed many scientists who fear it could jeopardize global safety. This decision ends 22 federal contracts, including one with Moderna for a human bird flu vaccine. HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. claims the funding will be redirected toward “safer, broader vaccine platforms,” asserting that mRNA vaccines are ineffective against viruses like Covid and flu. However, scientists quickly countered this, emphasizing that mRNA vaccines saved millions of lives and do not increase virus mutation rates.
Kennedy has a history of undermining vaccine science, despite claiming to be “pro-safety.” Experts point out that mRNA technology is crucial for rapid vaccine development, and its records show excellent safety, with only rare side effects. The halt in funding is particularly concerning given the potential threat from influenza viruses, especially during current outbreaks.
While some believe this funding cut could have negative global implications, others suggest that developments in the UK might mitigate the situation. Nevertheless, experts warn that Kennedy’s stance reinforces an anti-science sentiment, which could undermine vaccination efforts worldwide at a time when vaccination rates are already declining.
