HHS announces development of vaccines against deadly hemorrhagic fevers

In late June 2025, the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) in the United States revealed plans to develop two new vaccines targeting the Marburg virus and Sudan ebolavirus, critical public health threats. This announcement was made by the Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority (BARDA), which is tasked with preparing the nation for bioterrorism and severe infectious diseases. The vaccines were prompted by the increasing fear of outbreaks, especially following a SUDV outbreak in 2022, which saw 141 cases and 55 fatalities, as well as a 2024 MARV outbreak reporting 66 cases and 15 deaths. Both viruses belong to the Filovirus family and can cause death rates up to 90% in infected individuals. The context surrounding this announcement is particularly noteworthy as Robert F. Kennedy Jr., a known vaccine skeptic, is currently leading the HHS. Despite his questionable stance on vaccines, he has recently taken measures to prioritize public health security, indicating a focus on preparedness against potential disease outbreaks. In June 2025, Kennedy removed the entire Advisory Committee for Immunization Practices (ACIP), replacing those members with individuals critical of existing vaccine policies. This restructuring intends to build public trust in vaccination while still addressing the need for new vaccines against serious threats, underlining the department's dual approach of skepticism and cautious proactive measures. Recent data illustrates that the risk of these hemorrhagic fevers is real, with outbreaks highlighting the absence of vaccines specifically for MARV and SUDV. The need for vaccination research is pressing given their high case fatality rates. The response from HHS reveals a recognition of the detrimental impact that such viruses can have on health security, especially if left unchecked. The development of these vaccines may provide a safety net against future outbreaks, stressing the urgency for biomedical innovation in the face of persistent health threats. These actions indicate a significant shift within HHS under Kennedy’s leadership, balancing his skepticism against vaccination with the pressing necessity for preparedness against emerging infectious diseases. Addressing material threats in public health programs could help bridge the gap between the public and scientific communities, possibly setting a precedent for future health governance amid growing skepticism about vaccines.