HHS cancels development of mRNA vaccines for flu and COVID

The Department of Health and Human Services is canceling the development of 22 mRNA vaccines, citing a lack of efficacy for preventing respiratory viruses like the flu and COVID-19.

The department issued a press release late Tuesday announcing a “coordinated wind-down” of mRNA vaccine development under the Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority, or BARDA. 

The 22 affected projects are worth nearly $500 million, including a vaccine contract with Moderna for H5N1 bird flu. 

HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. said that he and his team “reviewed the science, listened to the experts, and acted.” 

“BARDA is terminating 22 mRNA vaccine development investments because...