By Siladitya Ray – Forbes –
Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. announced he is cancelling contracts and grants worth nearly $500 million earmarked to develop mRNA vaccines, as the long-time vaccine critic has repeatedly cast doubts about the safety and efficacy of shots, despite pushback from scientists.
In a statement Tuesday night, the Department of Health and Human Services described the move as a “coordinated wind-down of its mRNA vaccine development activities under the Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority (BARDA).”
The agency claimed the decision was made after carrying out a “comprehensive review” of mRNA-related investments made during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Kennedy said BARDA will scrap 22 mRNA vaccine development investments, claiming that data showed “these vaccines fail to protect effectively against upper respiratory infections like COVID and flu.”
Kennedy also claimed that the HHS will shift this funding towards “safer, broader vaccine platforms that remain effective even as viruses mutate,” without offering any specifics.
The noted vaccine skeptic also insisted that the HHS “supports safe, effective vaccines for every American who wants them.”
