ROCHESTER, N.Y. (WROC) -- The Department of Health and Human Services announced Thursday that it will cut nearly half a billion dollars in funding for 22 vaccine development programs, many of which focus on mRNA technology.
The budget cuts, announced by Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., are part of an effort to redirect federal health spending.
Several public health experts, including the Wellness Equity Alliance, have criticized the decision, calling it dangerous amid rising outbreaks of diseases like measles.
Dr. Ann Falsey, Professor of Medicine at the University of Rochester, expressed concern over the cuts, stating that mRNA technology is crucial for quickly adapting vaccines during crises.
While mRNA vaccines gained prominence during the COVID-19 pandemic, research into this technology has been ongoing for decades. Experts believe mRNA holds potential not only for infectious diseases but also for conditions such as cancer and HIV.
Dr. Falsey emphasized the adaptability and scalability of RNA vaccines, highlighting their importance in responding to pandemics.
She urged those opposed to the budget cuts to contact their state representatives to voice their concerns.
The decision to cut funding for vaccine development programs has sparked debate among health professionals, who stress the importance of maintaining a robust toolkit for addressing future health crises.
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