HHS Cancels $500 Million in BARDA-Funded mRNA Vaccine Contracts Amid Strategic Shift

The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) is winding down mRNA vaccine development funded by the Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority (BARDA), canceling 22 contracts totaling nearly $500 million1234.

This move comes as part of a broader strategic shift away from mRNA platforms, with HHS leadership citing data suggesting mRNA vaccines are less effective at preventing upper respiratory infections such as COVID-19 and flu compared to expectations123.

The contracts affected include major pharmaceutical companies such as Moderna, Pfizer, and CSL Seqirus, as well as research organizations like Emory University and Tiba Biotech24.

Some late-stage mRNA vaccine contracts will continue, but no new mRNA-related projects will be funded under BARDA12.

HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. stated that the decision follows a scientific review and expert consultation, with funding being redirected to alternative vaccine platforms considered safer and more effective against evolving viruses12.

The announcement has generated controversy given the success of mRNA vaccines during the COVID-19 pandemic, as many clinical trials demonstrated significant safety and efficacy for severe disease prevention4.

The shift will lead to increased regulatory scrutiny, tighter clinical trial requirements, and reduced federal funding for nucleic acid-based vaccine trials3.

Sources:

1. https://www.pharmexec.com/view/hhs-reduction-mrna-vaccine-development-barda-500-million-contracts-cancelled

2. https://www.fiercebiotech.com/biotech/hhs-cancels-all-mrna-vaccine-development-funded-barda

3. https://www.appliedclinicaltrialsonline.com/view/hhs-cancellation-barda-mrna-vaccine-trial-design-oversight-funding

4. https://www.biopharmadive.com/news/kennedy-mrna-vaccines-barda-hhs-cancel-contracts/756953/