HHS plans to cut nearly $500M in funding for mRNA vaccine research, alarming health experts.

The Department of Health and Human Services has decided to wind down nearly $500 million in funding for mRNA vaccine development for respiratory infections, including COVID-19 and the flu. This decision has sparked concerns among experts like Dr. Elias Sayour, who worry it could hinder vaccine research and development, as well as impede advancements in mRNA technology and general medical progress, including efforts to prevent future pandemics. Despite these concerns, HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. maintains that the cuts will not affect other areas of research.