The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has announced a major shift in vaccine development priorities, winding down mRNA-related activities under the Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority (BARDA).
This decision follows a thorough review of investments made during the COVID-19 emergency. Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. emphasized that the move is based on scientific data and expert input.
BARDA is terminating twenty-two mRNA vaccine projects worth nearly $500 million, as these vaccines have shown limitations in protecting against upper respiratory infections like COVID-19 and flu.
The department is moving beyond mRNA’s constraints to invest in better solutions that mimic natural immunity. Traditional methods like whole-virus vaccines offer proven durability, unlike mRNA’s rapid but mutation-sensitive design.
Funding will now redirect toward safer, more effective platforms that hold up against viral mutations. This includes whole-virus vaccines and novel technologies with stronger safety records and transparent data practices.
“We reviewed the science, listened to the experts, and acted,” said Secretary Kennedy. He continued that HHS fully supports safe, effective vaccines for all Americans who choose them.
We reviewed the science, listened to the experts, and acted. 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… pic.twitter.com/GPKbuU7ywN
— Secretary Kennedy (@SecKennedy) August 5, 2025
Kennedy reiterated his commitment to informed choice, stating during his confirmation that he is neither anti-vaccine nor anti-industry. He aims to ensure vaccines meet high standards of efficacy and safety.
Specific actions include terminating contracts with Emory University and Tiba Biotech for mRNA platforms. De-scoping affects existing deals with Luminary Labs, ModeX, and Seqirus.
Collaborations with the Department of Defense are being restructured, impacting nucleic acid-based projects with AAHI, AstraZeneca, HDT Bio, and Moderna/UTMB.
Multiple pre-award solicitations are being rejected or canceled, including proposals from Pfizer, Sanofi Pasteur, CSL Seqirus, Gritstone, and others under BARDA’s Rapid Response Partnership Vehicle and VITAL Hub.
Some final-stage contracts, like those with Arcturus and Amplitude, will complete to honor prior taxpayer investments.
HHS notes that other departmental uses of mRNA, such as in cancer research, remain unaffected.
No new mRNA-based initiatives will start, and BARDA Ventures will halt equity investments in mRNA through the Global Health Investment Corporation.
This policy aligns with the Trump administration’s focus on evidence-based health strategies that prioritize American well-being.
Experts within the administration see this as strengthening national biosecurity by favoring reliable technologies.
Kennedy’s leadership reflects a MAGA-era emphasis on practical, people-first policies. He vowed post-election not to remove vaccines but to enhance information and option and this wind-down represents a bold step toward safer vaccine development.
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