The US health secretary, Robert F Kennedy Jr, has cancelled $500m (£375m; €430m) in funding for mRNA vaccines being developed to counter respiratory viruses such as covid-19 and flu.Kennedy’s Department of Health and Human Services said that the decision was made after “a comprehensive review” of mRNA related investments initiated during the covid pandemic.1“We reviewed the science, listened to the experts, and acted,” said Kennedy. “BARDA [the Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority] is terminating 22 mRNA vaccine development investments because the data show these vaccines fail to protect effectively against upper respiratory infections like covid and flu. We’re shifting that funding toward safer, broader vaccine platforms that remain effective even as viruses mutate.”Kennedy is also reported to be reviewing plans to fire all 16 members of the US Preventive Services Task Force, which provides guidance to primary care doctors. The American Medical Association, which represents about half of US…