06 Aug 2025, 12:08
Funding Announcement for Vaccine Development RFK Jr
- Announced $500 million for 22 MRNK vaccine projects
- Robert Kennedy Jr. proposes new vaccine platforms
- Criticism of changes in health policy by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS)
Washington — The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) announced the funding of $500 million for 22 projects utilizing MRNK technology for the development of vaccines against respiratory infections, such as COVID-19 and influenza.
This information was presented by Robert F. Kennedy Jr., the Secretary of Health, in a statement on September 5, 2025. He stated that these projects, which are carried out by leading pharmaceutical companies, including Pfizer and Moderna, do not guarantee effective protection against respiratory infections.
Kennedy noted that HHS believes it is necessary to transition to "safer and broader vaccine platforms" that can effectively work even under conditions of viral mutations. He did not provide detailed information about new technologies.
The projects being announced aim to prevent infections from avian influenza and other viruses, and previously received significant funding under the Operation Warp Speed program, which facilitated the rapid development of vaccines during the COVID-19 pandemic. According to HHS data, some of the previous projects will remain active to retain previous investments in tax credits.
Kennedy, who is known for his critical stance on vaccines, mentioned that his team "re-evaluated the science, reached out to experts and acted." However, it should be noted that his views on the safety of vaccines have sparked controversy among medical experts, who emphasize the importance of MRNK vaccines in the fight against the pandemic.
Tags: USA/Politics/Research