The administration announced the release of $600 million to Gavi as it transitions to mercury-free vaccines.
The administration announced the release of $600 million in congressionally approved funding to Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, to facilitate a transition toward mercury-free vaccines. This move follows instructions from President Trump to negotiate reforms with the organization to ensure accountability and evidence-based science. Under the new agreement, Gavi will replace mercury-containing vaccines for children with mercury-free alternatives, such as hexavalent vaccines that protect against polio. The Department of Health and Human Services noted that while the U.S. and European Union removed mercury from most vaccines 25 years ago, many global programs continued to use it. The administration highlighted that the transition addresses previous inequities where Black and Brown children were often exposed to mercury-containing shots while white populations were protected. Additionally, Gavi will end the promotion of COVID-19 vaccines for routine immunization and downsize its staff. The U.S. will resume its place on the Gavi Board to hold the organization accountable for measurable progress.