RFK Jr. announces $500M cut in funding for mRNA vaccine development

Funding & Research - The health department is pulling $500 million (half a billion dollars) in funding specifically for mRNA vaccine development [1] - The terminated contracts are focused on mRNA technology for COVID and flu shots [6] - $2 million was pulled from a vaccine program for vulnerable children [8] Scientific & Expert Opinions - Experts state mRNA vaccines have been extremely effective against hospitalizations and deaths, even if they don't prevent infections [4] - Scientists and vaccine experts are coming out against the decision to cut mRNA vaccine research, stating it could put people at more risk during public health emergencies [2] - Experts worry about the secretary trying to undermine the US vaccine infrastructure under the guise of safety [8] Potential Risks & Concerns - Concerns exist regarding the potential for the next pandemic and the lack of resources needed to address it [10] - There are long-term concerns about sowing doubt in the safety of vaccines and potentially preventing scientists from developing newer, better vaccines [9]