US policy shift on mRNA vaccines The US Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) announced it is winding down ~$500 million in mRNA vaccine development projects, terminating 22 government-supported BARDA investments (Reuters). The agency is diverting funds to whole-virus vaccines and novel platforms that aim to offer broader protection, citing concerns about mRNA vaccines’ reduced effectiveness against upper respiratory infections like COVID-19 and influenza. While these claims are off scientific evidence, this major move is expected to reshape vaccine development priorities worldwide and may impact major mRNA manufacturers like Moderna, Pfizer, and Sanofi Pasteur. I predict this shift risks significant financial loss without improved outcomes. Countries worldwide have sold or dismantled their state-owned vaccine industries, unable to compete with agile private-sector teams. Belgium is one example: its public-sector whole-cell pertussis vaccine, with extremely high reactogenicity and poor efficacy, was abandoned under parental pressure in favor of modern (cell-free) acellular vaccines. Partnerships and expansions...
🔒 Premium Content - For Free
Unlock this content by becoming a Global Health Press subscriber. Join for exclusive articles, expert research, and valuable insights!
