The US gave up developing mRNA vaccines, what happened?

The US decision to abandon the development of mRNA vaccines would undermine one of the most important medical advances in decades, one that could protect millions of people from dangerous diseases.

mRNA vaccines have helped protect people from viruses such as flu, COVID-19, H5N1... - Photo: REUTERS

The US Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) recently announced that it will terminate 22 mRNA vaccine development projects of the Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority (BARDA), and suspend nearly $500 million worth of investment.

The decision would undermine one of the most important medical advances in decades: technology that could protect millions of people from coming threats.

Dr. Rick Bright, a virologist and former director of BARDA, argues that if the US abandons mRNA, it will not only lose a public health advantage but also give up a strategic asset.

In terms of national security, mRNA is the biological equivalent of a “missile defense system.” The ability to rapidly design, manufacture, and deploy medical countermeasures is as important to the U.S. defense industry as any other military capability. Adversaries investing in this technology will be able to respond to disease outbreaks faster and protect their populations sooner than the United States.

Currently, the United States holds a decisive advantage in mRNA science, manufacturing capacity, and regulatory expertise. In an era where biological threats can be engineered, losing this competitive advantage would leave the United States vulnerable and dependent on other countries for lifesaving tools.

VNA

Source: https://tuoitre.vn/my-tu-bo-phat-trien-vac-xin-mrna-chuyen-gi-xay-ra-20250819224120616.htm