The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has announced the wind-down of its mRNA vaccine development activities under the Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority (BARDA). This decision involves canceling and redirecting contracts worth hundreds of millions, following a review of mRNA-related investments initiated during the COVID-19 public health emergency.
HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. said, “We reviewed the science, listened to the experts, and acted.” He explained that BARDA is terminating 22 mRNA vaccine development investments because data indicate these vaccines fail to protect effectively against upper respiratory infections like COVID and flu. The funding will be redirected toward broader vaccine platforms that remain effective even as viruses mutate.
The wind-down includes canceling BARDA’s award to Moderna/UTMB for an mRNA-based H5N1 vaccine and terminating contracts with Emory University and Tiba Biotech. It also involves de-scoping mRNA-related work in existing contracts with Luminary Labs, ModeX, and Seqirus. Multiple pre-award solicitations are being rejected or canceled, including proposals from Pfizer, Sanofi Pasteur, CSL Seqirus, Gritstone, among others.
Collaborations with DoD-JPEO affecting nucleic acid-based vaccine projects with AAHI, AstraZeneca, and HDT Bio are being restructured. While some final-stage contracts will continue to preserve prior taxpayer investment, no new mRNA-based projects will start. Additionally, HHS has instructed Global Health Investment Corporation (GHIC), which manages BARDA Ventures, to cease all mRNA-based equity investments.
Secretary Kennedy emphasized that HHS supports safe vaccines for all Americans who want them: “That’s why we’re moving beyond the limitations of mRNA and investing in better solutions.” This move indicates a shift in federal vaccine development priorities towards platforms with stronger safety records and transparent practices.
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