What the halt of RFK Jr on mRNA vaccine development means for global health progress

The rapid production process of mRNA vaccines is a central reason why vaccine skeptics have long expressed distrust toward this technology. Unlike traditional vaccines, mRNA vaccines can be developed and manufactured much faster because they use a novel method that instructs cells to produce specific viral proteins, prompting an immune response. This speed, while advantageous in a pandemic, has raised concerns among some about the thoroughness of safety evaluations and long-term effects. Robert F. Kennedy Jr., the U.S. Health Secretary, recently criticized mRNA vaccine technology as "troubled," and advocated returning to older "whole-cell" vaccine platforms, which he argued are safer and more broadly protective. His department canceled about $500 million in contracts for mRNA vaccine development projects, citing concerns that mRNA vaccines "fail to protect effectively against upper respiratory infections like COVID and flu." Kennedy announced a shift in focus toward vaccine platforms that are purportedly safer and remain effective as viruses mutate, such as whole-virus vaccines. This stance contradicts the established scientific consensus that mRNA vaccines, while developed rapidly, have demonstrated high efficacy and safety in large clinical trials during the COVID-19 pandemic. Although rare adverse events such as myocarditis were noted, the overall risk is low and outweighed by protection from severe disease. Experts warn that canceling mRNA programs could weaken pandemic preparedness, as mRNA vaccines are uniquely adaptable and fast to develop compared to traditional vaccines. The decision has sparked concern among public health professionals who view it as a setback in vaccine innovation and emergency responsiveness.<br /><br />The controversy highlights a tension between the unprecedented speed of mRNA vaccine development and the public perception of vaccine safety, influenced strongly by skepticism towards new technology. Kennedy’s comments reflect a broader debate about balancing rapid innovation with cautious evaluation in public health policy.

MSU temporarily halts transfer of psychiatric services amid ongoing evaluations

Students will continue to have access to psychiatric services through University Health and Wellbeing during this pause to ensure their mental health needs are met without interruption. This provision is vital as students often face unique and increasing stressors that can significantly affect their well-being and academic success. University Health and Wellbeing is committed to supporting students by maintaining available psychiatric care so they can manage ongoing treatment and access necessary resources even during service pauses. Psychiatric services typically include medication management, psychological assessments, and ongoing care for mental health conditions. Maintaining access allows students to continue treatment plans, including medication prescriptions and consultations, without facing gaps that could adversely impact their mental health. Students already engaged in treatment with university providers or off-campus professionals will still have pathways to receive care, either by continuing with their current provider or through university referrals. Any necessary medication and laboratory costs remain the student's responsibility, but the core psychiatric support stays accessible. This continuation underlines the university's understanding of the importance of mental health in a student's overall well-being and academic performance. It serves as a critical safety net, especially during periods when other campus services might be temporarily paused or limited. By allowing uninterrupted access, the university ensures students are not left vulnerable during these times and reinforces its commitment to a supportive, health-focused campus environment. Maintaining psychiatric services during pauses fosters stability in mental health care, helping students navigate challenges effectively and promoting a healthier, more successful academic experience.<br /> <br />Access to such mental health resources aligns with broader trends in higher education emphasizing 24/7 availability and reducing barriers to care through virtual and in-person services. This approach reflects an increasing recognition nationwide of the prevalence of mental health challenges among college students and the need for comprehensive, ongoing support systems.

John Cena Opens Up About His Hair Transplant Regret: Why He Wishes He Had Done It Sooner

John Cena has shared a fresh and honest perspective after undergoing a hair transplant in November 2024. In a candid interview featured in this week's cover story, the 48-year-old wrestler-actor opened up about his experience with hair loss, a subject many tend to avoid. Cena revealed that his decision came after WWE fans pointed out his bald spot with signs calling him "The bald John Cena," which ultimately pushed him to explore his options and get the surgery. He admitted he wished he had done it earlier, saying that if there wasn’t so much stigma around hair loss, he would have acted ten years ago. Cena detailed his current hair care routine which includes red-light therapy, minoxidil, vitamins, shampoo, and conditioner, alongside the transplant itself. He described the surgery simply as relocating hair follicles one by one from one part of the scalp to another. This straightforward explanation aims to normalize the procedure and remove shame around it. Cena emphasized that hair loss is a common issue, affecting seven or eight out of ten men, and expressed relief at no longer having to hide his condition. Furthermore, he acknowledged the challenges of being in the public eye where appearance influences confidence and career longevity. Cena said the hair transplant "completely changed the course of my life," boosting his confidence both in wrestling and acting. Despite some criticism, he stated there is no shame in addressing hair loss and encouraged openness about it. This newfound vulnerability marks a significant step for the athlete as he continues toward his farewell WWE tour and eventual retirement at the end of 2025. <br /><br /> Cena’s story sheds light on the pressures male celebrities face regarding appearance and highlights the importance of self-care and acceptance. His openness about hair loss and treatment helps destigmatize a common condition, encouraging more men to embrace proactive solutions without embarrassment.

HHS Steps Back from mRNA Vaccine Development, Shifts Focus to Broader Vaccine Technologies

The Alliance for mRNA Medicines (AMM) has rapidly grown into a major industry group with 77 companies and institutions advancing mRNA therapies. Established just a few years ago, AMM now represents a global coalition focused on accelerating innovation and advocacy for mRNA-based vaccines and treatments, aiming to address a broad range of diseases beyond COVID-19, including cancer and chronic illnesses. However, this momentum has been disrupted following a recent announcement from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. declared that the Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority (BARDA), the government’s emergency preparedness agency, will stop funding work on mRNA vaccines. This decision includes terminating 22 contracts valued at nearly $500 million and halting support for new mRNA-based projects. This move has left members of AMM confused and concerned. During a recent call, representatives from the alliance expressed disbelief and uncertainty about the rationale behind the government's retreat from mRNA vaccine research. The decision raises questions about the future public funding landscape for this revolutionary platform technology, which has shown immense promise since the COVID-19 pandemic highlighted its potential to save lives and transform medicine. AMM continues to convene and empower industry leaders to push scientific standards, commercial best practices, and innovative breakthroughs in mRNA medicines globally. Nonetheless, the withdrawal of significant governmental support may slow progress or shift the burden more heavily onto private and international sectors to sustain advancements in mRNA technology. The alliance remains committed to finding new ways to drive this promising area of medicine forward in the face of these challenges. <br /> <br /> The rapid expansion of AMM from 31 founding organizations to 77 members underscores the growing interest and investment in mRNA technologies worldwide. The alliance fosters collaboration among biotech, pharma, and academic leaders, focusing on standardizing manufacturing, quality, and regulatory approaches to unlock mRNA’s full potential. Despite setbacks in U.S. federal funding, the global scientific community continues to explore applications of mRNA beyond vaccines, including oncology and rare diseases, highlighting the long-term importance of sustained support for this innovative field.

Companies Committed to Developing AI Powered Patient Assistant Apps to Enhance Healthcare Support

You’re currently reading the web edition of STAT’s AI Prognosis newsletter, a subscriber-exclusive resource dedicated to artificial intelligence in health care and medicine. This weekly newsletter, authored by Brittany Trang, a health tech reporter and scientist by training, aims to provide in-depth, evidence-based insights into the rapidly evolving role of AI in the medical field. Delivered every Wednesday, AI Prognosis helps readers understand AI developments by cutting through the noise with a scientific perspective rooted in rigorous evaluation of data, limitations, and alternate hypotheses. AI Prognosis covers a wide range of topics within the healthcare AI landscape, including technological innovations, regulatory changes, and ethical considerations. For example, recent issues have discussed the pressing need for healthcare AI accreditation standards, as highlighted by URAC’s President and CEO Dr. Shawn Griffin. These standards aim to ensure AI applications in healthcare comply with regulations like HIPAA and maintain patient safety, equity, and quality of care. The field is evolving fast, and such accreditations will adapt accordingly to keep pace with technological trends. Moreover, AI Prognosis regularly reports on anticipated regulatory actions, such as the FDA’s expected implementation of guardrails and audit-trail mandates to govern healthcare AI usage. Developed through consultations with over 90 experts, these measures aim to ensure accountability and transparency in AI tools employed by healthcare providers. Overall, AI Prognosis serves as a crucial guide for professionals navigating the intersection of AI, health, and medicine, combining scientific rigor with timely news to illuminate this complex and dynamic space. To access the full newsletter regularly, interested readers can sign up to receive it via email every week.

Dozens killed while seeking aid in Gaza as Israel weighs expanded military operations

At least 38 Palestinians were killed overnight and into Wednesday in the Gaza Strip while seeking aid from United Nations convoys and sites operated by an Israeli-backed American contractor, according to local health officials. These fatalities occurred amidst ongoing Israeli military operations that have continued despite declared pauses intended to facilitate humanitarian responses. Since late May, more than 1,300 Palestinians have been killed while attempting to obtain food and essential aid, with a significant number targeted near convoy routes and at Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF) sites. The GHF is a US contractor working in cooperation with Israeli forces, operating aid distribution points that bypass the traditional UN delivery system. Despite Israeli announcements of daily military pauses and attempts to improve humanitarian access, attacks on civilians gathering for aid persist, contributing to high casualties in these vulnerable groups. The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs and human rights officials have repeatedly condemned these attacks, emphasizing that those killed were not involved in hostilities but were civilians struggling to survive. The ongoing blockade, restricted access to humanitarian corridors, and continued military hostilities have pushed Gaza to the brink of famine, escalating a severe humanitarian crisis. UN leaders stress the need for unhindered aid delivery, warning that denying civilians food access may constitute war crimes or crimes against humanity. The situation remains dire, with aid convoys attempting to reach a population facing starvation amid conflict. The calls for safe, unimpeded humanitarian access and protection of civilians continue to be urgent international priorities.<br /><br />Despite Israel’s strategic announcements intended to ease aid flow — such as localized military pauses, airdrops, and designated convoy routes — the ground reality shows persistent violence along these routes. This discrepancy underscores the complexity of delivering aid in a highly militarized and contested environment, as highlighted by repeated reports from the UN and human rights offices. Meanwhile, humanitarian actors continue to advocate for the immediate release of hostages and an end to hostilities that exacerbate civilian suffering.