HHS Winds Down mRNA Vaccine Development Under BARDA Amidst COVID-19 Review

HHS begins winding down mRNA vaccine development under BARDA due to a comprehensive review of mRNA-related investments. The decision follows a review of the science and expert opinions, and the cancellation of various contracts and solicitations. The wind-down affects a range of programs including the cancellation of BARDA's award to Moderna for an mRNA-based H5N1 vaccine and the termination of contracts with Emory University and Tiba Biotech.

WASHINGTON, D.C. — The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has announced a coordinated wind-down of its mRNA vaccine development activities under the Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority (BARDA). This decision follows a comprehensive review of mRNA-related investments initiated during the COVID-19 public health emergency [1].

HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. stated, "We reviewed the science, listened to the experts, and acted." The wind-down affects 22 mRNA vaccine development investments, totaling nearly $500 million [1]. This includes the cancellation of BARDA's award to Moderna/UTMB for an mRNA-based H5N1 vaccine and the termination of contracts with Emory University and Tiba Biotech [1]. Other mRNA-related work in existing contracts with Luminary Labs, ModeX, and Seqirus is also being de-scoped [1].

While some final-stage contracts will be allowed to run their course to preserve prior taxpayer investment, no new mRNA-based projects will be initiated. HHS has also instructed its partner, Global Health Investment Corporation (GHIC), to cease all mRNA-based equity investments [1]. The shift in funding aims to prioritize platforms with stronger safety records and transparent clinical and manufacturing data practices [1].

The move signals a broader shift in federal vaccine development priorities. Going forward, BARDA will focus on evidence-based, ethically grounded solutions like whole-virus vaccines and novel platforms [1]. This decision has sparked criticism from some experts, who argue that mRNA technology has significant advantages, particularly in pandemic situations and for cancer vaccines [2].

Moderna spokesperson Kelly Cunningham stated, "We are not aware of any new contract cancellations by BARDA involving Moderna." A spokesperson for Gritstone said the company ceased operations "as a company some time ago" [2]. AstraZeneca declined to comment [2]. Dr. Peter Hotez, a pediatrician and director of the Center for Vaccine Development at Texas Children's Hospital, criticized the decision, stating that it promotes a pseudoscience agenda and weakens national biosecurity [2].

Dr. Paul Offit, a vaccine scientist at Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, criticized Secretary Kennedy for making a policy decision that contradicts scientific data. He argued that the mRNA vaccines are safe and effective and that the decision to cut back funding is based on false statements [2].

The wind-down of mRNA vaccine development under BARDA is part of a broader strategy to refocus federal resources on safer and more effective vaccine platforms. This decision highlights the importance of evidence-based policymaking in the face of evolving scientific knowledge and public health challenges.

References:
[1] https://www.hhs.gov/press-room/hhs-winds-down-mrna-development-under-barda.html
[2] https://www.cnn.com/2025/08/05/health/hhs-slashes-funding-for-mrna-vaccine-development
[3] https://www.cbsnews.com/news/rfk-jr-halts-500-million-for-mrna-vaccine-research/