HHS ends millions in federal funding for mRNA vaccines

The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) is winding down its mRNA vaccine development activities under the Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority (BARDA), the agency announced Tuesday. 

“We reviewed the science, listened to the experts, and acted,” HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. said in a statement. The winding down will include the cancellation of some contracts with a total worth of about $500 million.  

“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.” 

The Food and Drug Administration has approved mRNA vaccines from Moderna and Pfizer to treat COVID-19.

HHS’s decision comes after it said it conducted a “comprehensive review” of mRNA-related investments that began during the COVID-19 pandemic, and it signals a broader shift in federal vaccine policy under Kennedy who has admitted to being skeptical of mRNA technology.  

The agency will not start any new mRNA-based projects with BARDA now focusing on platforms with “stronger safety records” and “transparent clinical and manufacturing practices,” the agency said.  

HHS added that vaccine technologies that were funded during the pandemic but failed to meet “current scientific standards” will be phased out in favor of whole-virus vaccines and novel platforms. 

Some mRNA vaccine contracts in their final stages, like those with Arcturus and Amplitude, will be allowed to finish to honor taxpayer investments.

Cancelations include an award to Moderna for mRNA H5N1 bird flu mRNA vaccine as well as existing contracts with Emory University and Tiba Biotech. HHS is also changing its mRNA-related work in its contracts with CSL Seqirus and AstraZeneca, according to a release.

A spokesperson for Moderna told The Hill that they were unsure what award HHS is referring to and that they are not involved in developing an mRNA vaccine for H5N1 bird flu.

HHS could be referring to a contract with Moderna related to a pandemic flu vaccine that was canceled in May, the spokesperson said.

On top of this, HHS is rejecting or cancelling multiple contract bids from Pfizer and CSL Seqirus. The announcement will not impact other uses of mRNA technology at HHS, according to a press release.

“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,” Kennedy said.

AstraZeneca, CSL Seqirus, Pfizer, Tiba Biotech, and Emory University did not immediately answer requests for comment. 

Updated at 7:19 p.m. EDT