RFK Jr halts $500m mRNA vaccine project in US
The US Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) is canceling $500 million in funding for mRNA vaccines developed to combat viruses like the flu and Covid-19. This decision affects 22 projects led by major pharmaceutical companies, including Pfizer and Moderna, working on vaccines for viruses such as bird flu, as stated by HHS.
Health Secretary Robert F Kennedy Jr, known for his skepticism towards vaccines, announced the funding withdrawal citing concerns that "mRNA technology poses more risks than benefits for these respiratory viruses." Kennedy's stance on vaccines and health policies has faced criticism from doctors and health experts.
Peter Lurie, a former US Food and Drug Administration official, emphasized the importance of mRNA vaccines in fighting the Covid-19 pandemic and saving lives. He expressed disappointment in the US decision, calling it a step back from a valuable tool in combating future pandemics.
Kennedy defended the funding shift, stating that mRNA vaccines are ineffective against upper respiratory infections like Covid-19 and flu. He claimed that supporting safer and more effective vaccine platforms was crucial as mRNA vaccines could potentially prolong pandemics by encouraging virus mutations.
Health experts noted that viruses naturally mutate, with or without vaccines. Dr. Paul Offit, a vaccine expert, highlighted the safety and effectiveness of mRNA vaccines in preventing severe infections from viruses like Covid-19. He warned that canceling funding for mRNA vaccines could weaken the US's ability to respond to future pandemics.
HHS mentioned that the Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority (BARDA) would focus on vaccine platforms with stronger safety records and transparent clinical and manufacturing practices. While some vaccines use inactivated viruses to trigger immune responses, mRNA vaccines teach cells to produce proteins that trigger immune responses. Moderna and Pfizer's mRNA vaccines underwent extensive testing and were proven safe and effective.
Kennedy's actions since taking office have aimed to reform how the nation's health department develops and regulates vaccines. He made changes to vaccine committees and immunization schedules, sparking debates on the impact of his decisions on public health.