India, Aug. 6 -- The US Department of Health and Human Services has announced that it is winding down the mRNA vaccine development activities under the Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority, including the cancellation and de-scoping of various contracts and solicitations.
Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. said 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 safer, broader vaccine platforms that remain effective even as viruses mutate."
The wind-down affects a range of programs, for which HHS earmarked $500m in funding.
HHS said in a press release ...