NIH Director Cites Public Distrust as Reason for mRNA Vaccine Development Discontinuation

The director of the National Institutes of Health (NIH), Jay Bhattacharya, M.D., Ph.D., has attributed the federal government's discontinuation of mRNA vaccine development to a lack of public trust, stating that the platform is "no longer viable." This explanation differs from the justification provided by Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) head Robert F. Kennedy Jr., who cited ineffectiveness against upper respiratory infections as the primary reason.

Federal Government Halts mRNA Vaccine Projects

The HHS recently announced the termination of 22 mRNA vaccine projects, collectively valued at $500 million. These projects were funded by the HHS's Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority, which has stated it will not initiate any new mRNA projects moving forward.

Dr. Bhattacharya, speaking on Steve Bannon's "WarRoom" podcast, highlighted the low uptake of COVID-19 vaccines among Americans, with fewer than 25% having received the latest boosters. He emphasized that such widespread distrust makes it impossible to maintain a vaccine platform.

Conflicting Views on mRNA Technology

While Dr. Bhattacharya described mRNA technology as "promising, but not yet ready for prime time for vaccines," it's important to note that multiple peer-reviewed studies have found mRNA vaccines to be safe and effective. The underlying research for this technology dates back to the early 1960s.

The NIH director's stance appears to conflict with established scientific consensus and recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The CDC continues to recommend updated COVID-19 vaccines for most adults, stating that vaccination is the safest way to avoid severe outcomes.

Shift in Vaccine Development Strategy

In lieu of mRNA vaccine development, the administration is now focusing on a $500 million investment for developing a "universal" vaccine. This approach aims to create a shot that can protect against multiple strains of pandemic-prone viruses simultaneously. However, this concept has been pursued for decades without success, and previous attempts have been associated with more frequent mild side effects, especially in children.

The abrupt shift in vaccine development strategy has led to controversy within the scientific community. The NIH is currently facing several lawsuits related to sudden research grant terminations, with a federal judge ruling in June that hundreds of grants were cut illegally and must be restored immediately.