US Department of Health and Human Services suspends billion-dollar contract with Moderna – mRNA vaccines against bird flu are on the verge of extinction
Signaling move: The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) is ending all contracts with Moderna to develop an mRNA-based bird flu vaccine. After years of unconditional support, it marks a political turning point—one with far-reaching consequences for the vaccine industry.
Contract terminated – $766 million canceled
In a surprise decision, the US Department of Health and Human Services has suspended all financial obligations to the pharmaceutical company Moderna regarding its H5N1 (bird flu) mRNA vaccine project. Affected are:
- $590 million for late-stage clinical trials
- $176 million in research and development grants
- All federal government contractual purchase obligations for canned goods
The entire $766 million deal was closed – despite previous positive interim results in the early exploration phases.
Official reason: Security concerns and lack of transparency
According to HHS spokesman Andrew Nixon, the decision was made after a “thorough review” of the project. Concerns were raised regarding safety, scientific integrity, and ethical acceptability.
It says verbatim:
“We will not spend taxpayer money on projects that lack a solid scientific and regulatory basis.”
A surprisingly clear step – especially since mRNA technology has so far been considered the future standard for vaccine development.
Reminder: Same technology used for COVID-19 – with fatal results
The decision must also be understood in the context of post-COVID findings. mRNA technology, initially seen as a “game changer,” is now under immense criticism:
- Thousands of reported side effects, including myocarditis, neurological damage, and menstrual disorders
- Studies showing only short-term protection and possible immune system depletion
- Huge doubts about clinical approval procedures, data integrity, and political influence on regulators
In light of these experiences, trust in new mRNA vaccines, such as those against avian influenza, has likely dropped enormously – both among the population and among authorities.
Big Pharma Under Pressure – A Paradigm Shift in Vaccine Policy?
The HHS decision may signal a strategic break with the previous vaccination plan. For years, billions have been invested in mRNA platforms, accompanied by PR campaigns, global vaccination programs, and media partnerships.
But there are now growing signs that governments are acting more cautiously – perhaps for fear of political and legal consequences.
Moderna expressed its disappointment in a statement, but stressed that it was exploring “alternative options for further development.” Bird flu is still a potential market, but without government purchase guarantees, it becomes a risk to development.
What does this mean for the future?
The HHS decision could be a precursor to a change in vaccine policy in the West:
- Less blind faith in mRNA technology
- More scientific and regulatory insight
- Back to established vaccine platforms
- Be wary of industry and politically supported fast-track procedures
Last but not least, this move is also a warning signal to the WHO, which wants to implement global vaccination distribution mechanisms and digital certificate systems with the proposed anti-pandemic treaty – also assuming that the health threat is ongoing.
Summary: A step back from big pharma – a ray of hope towards critical enlightenment
The termination of the Moderna contract is more than just an administrative act – it is a sign that the policy of unconditional funding for mRNA vaccines is faltering.
After the COVID-19 experience, it is clear: vaccines cannot be imposed through fear, political collusion and billions of dollars of public relations – they must be effective, protective and safe.
And for this, it seems, critical review is finally beginning again.
