This Is What Destroying the Vaccine Market Looks Like

8 days ago

Moderna's mRNA-based seasonal flu vaccine was denied consideration by the FDA under RFK Jr.'s leadership, despite prior consultations and promising trial results.
The FDA's refusal to review Moderna's application was unusual, as it typically only rejects submissions with missing components or suspect data—neither of which applied here.
The decision to reject Moderna's application reportedly came from Vinay Prasad, an FDA director appointed by RFK Jr., overruling career staff who supported review.
The rejection has raised concerns about regulatory uncertainty, discouraging pharmaceutical companies from investing in vaccine development.
mRNA technology offers advantages like faster production and better adaptability to mutating viruses, making it crucial for future pandemic responses.
The Trump administration's shift in vaccine policy includes reduced government support for mRNA research and altered FDA approval standards.
Experts warn that undermining vaccine development could have severe public health consequences, including reduced preparedness for future pandemics.
Moderna has paused mRNA research for other conditions, signaling broader industry hesitancy due to regulatory unpredictability.

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