This was one in a continuing line of moves that have put Kennedy's vaccine skepticism into public policy, though scientists say the vaccines are safe.

The Nobel Prize-winning technology underpinning COVID-19 vaccines is also fueling a host of biotechs developing treatments for cancers, cystic fibrosis, and rare diseases.

HHS is slashing hundreds of millions in funding for mRNA vaccines and infectious disease treatments, but leaving the door open to mRNA therapies for cancer and genetic conditions.