Overview

• HHS confirmed it has begun winding down 22 BARDA-funded mRNA vaccine efforts, halting nearly $500 million in work.
• The move follows the earlier cancellation of a separate $766 million federal award to Moderna for influenza vaccine development.
• Officials have signaled a pivot to non‑mRNA approaches, though detailed replacement plans and timelines have not been published.
• Former BARDA director Rick Bright and other experts argue the cutbacks risk eroding rapid-response capacity built through years of U.S. and global investment.
• Opinion pieces, including one urging President Trump to direct a policy reversal, highlight concerns about safety perceptions, scientific leadership, and reported investor pullback in the mRNA sector.