RFK Jr. Halts $500M in mRNA Vaccine Projects, Sparking Backlash from Scientists
U.S. Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has officially announced the cancellation of 22 federally funded vaccine projects using mRNA technology, worth a combined $500 million, signaling a dramatic shift in the country’s vaccine strategy.
🛑 Kennedy Dismantles mRNA Vaccine Pipeline
In a statement released Tuesday, Kennedy—long known for his skepticism toward vaccines—said the halted programs targeted respiratory viruses like COVID-19, seasonal flu, and H5N1 bird flu.
The health secretary shared a video on social media criticizing mRNA vaccines and explaining his rationale for terminating projects led by major pharmaceutical companies such as Pfizer and Moderna.
“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,” Kennedy said.
Kennedy has already removed the expert panel that provides vaccine recommendations and retracted federal endorsements of COVID-19 vaccines, even amid a rising measles outbreak.
⚠️ Scientists Call the Decision Dangerous
The cancellation has triggered alarm in the medical community. Experts warn that mRNA technology has been instrumental in combating the COVID-19 pandemic and is vital for future pandemic preparedness.
“I don’t think I’ve seen a more dangerous decision in public health in my 50 years in the business,” said Mike Osterholm, an infectious disease specialist at the University of Minnesota.
“It’s certainly saved millions of lives,” added Dr. Paul Offit, a vaccine expert at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia.
Researchers also note that mRNA is being explored for cancer immunotherapy. Earlier this year, tech billionaire Larry Ellison publicly praised its cancer treatment potential.
🔁 HHS Signals New Direction in Vaccine Policy
Though mRNA-based COVID-19 and RSV vaccines remain approved, the Department of Health and Human Services stated that other uses of mRNA technology will continue unaffected. But the canceled projects represent a “shift in vaccine development priorities.”
“Let me be absolutely clear, HHS supports safe, effective vaccines for every American who wants them,” Kennedy said.
At a Tuesday press conference in Anchorage, Alaska, Kennedy—flanked by Republican Senators Lisa Murkowski and Dan Sullivan—announced that the administration will now focus on developing a “universal vaccine” that mimics natural immunity.