Biomedical research will continue with a focus on whole-virus vaccines and novel platforms.
U.S. Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. revoked $500 million in mRNA vaccine development contracts this week, indicating the federal government’s concerns regarding the risks of the new vaccination technology. The Department of Health and Human Services announced that the Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority (BARDA) will shift its focus away from messenger RNA research.
“To replace the troubled mRNA programs, we’re prioritizing the development of safer, broader vaccine strategies, like whole-virus vaccines and novel platforms that don’t collapse when viruses mutate,” Secretary Kennedy said in the video announcing the cancellation of the 22 research and development contracts.
“We reviewed the science, listened to the experts, and acted,” Secretary Kennedy stated. “We’re shifting that funding toward safer, broader vaccine platforms that remain effective even as viruses mutate.”
As the Lord Leads, Pray with Us…
- For discernment for Secretary Kennedy as he seeks to ensure the most effective vaccines and therapies are available to the American public.
- For HHS administrators and BARDA researchers as they evaluate the risks and benefits of various vaccines and treatments.
Sources: Axios, AP News, Roll Call
