Silke Mayr The US Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has officially ended its $590 million contract with Moderna. The deal aimed to develop an mRNA-based vaccine targeting the H5 strain of bird flu. This decision, announced in early 2025, is part of a broader review of mRNA technology’s role in pandemic preparedness. The contract had begun in mid-January before Donald Trump’s second term as president.
Moderna reported encouraging early trial results. Around 300 healthy adults participated in a clinical study showing the vaccine produced a rapid, strong, and lasting immune response. Moderna’s CEO, Stephane Bancel, acknowledged the contract cancellation but highlighted the vaccine’s promise and safety. He affirmed the company’s commitment to seek alternative ways to advance the project, emphasizing mRNA’s critical role in fighting emerging diseases.
Despite these findings, HHS officials said the project did not meet the agency’s scientific and ethical standards. Andrew Nixon, HHS Communications Director, explained an internal review led to the contract termination. Nixon stated that mRNA technology still requires further evaluation. He criticized previous administrations for suppressing safety and transparency concerns, saying HHS will avoid repeating those mistakes with taxpayer funds.
Internal government sources revealed past leadership sought greater oversight of mRNA projects. The aim was to ensure transparency and avoid risks associated with experimental treatments. Currently, mRNA underpins approved Covid-19 vaccines from Moderna and Pfizer/BioNTech, which have strong safety and effectiveness records.
However, vaccine skepticism, particularly around mRNA vaccines, remains a challenge. Medical experts worry misinformation and distrust may hinder vaccination efforts in future outbreaks. Many specialists criticize HHS’s decision as short-sighted.
Dr. Ashish Jha, former White House Covid-19 advisor and head of Brown University’s School of Public Health, strongly condemned the move. He credited Operation Warp Speed for mRNA vaccine development and noted nearly 2 billion doses have been administered globally. Jha called mRNA vaccines among the safest and most studied in history. He warned that if bird flu begins spreading between humans, ending support for mRNA research could threaten public health and weaken pandemic readiness.
Bird flu, or avian influenza, affects mainly birds but some strains can infect humans. The H5N1 virus has caused infections and one confirmed death in the US. Current government stockpiles hold older vaccines that do not use mRNA technology. These may be less effective against emerging strains.
Reports from February indicated federal agencies were reviewing whether to continue funding Moderna’s vaccine program. The contract termination drew criticism from pandemic experts.
Dr. Paul Friedrichs, retired Air Force major general and senior pandemic advisor, expressed disappointment. He stressed the importance of early investment to develop vaccines and treatments before outbreaks worsen. Friedrichs noted the unpredictable nature of viruses like H5N1 and urged ongoing research support to maintain preparedness.
The future of mRNA technology in pandemic defense remains uncertain as policy debates continue. Meanwhile, health experts warn that cutting funding risks slowing progress against evolving infectious threats.