The Trump administration abruptly canceled a $258 million US HIV vaccine research program, sparking outrage among scientists. The program, involving Duke University and Scripps Research Institute, showed promise and had also contributed to COVID-19 and other treatments. The NIH cited a shift in focus to existing prevention methods, but critics argue this decision jeopardizes global HIV prevention efforts and will likely lead to increased infections and deaths. The cancellation is part of a broader rollback of federal HIV initiatives, affecting prevention activities and aid across the US and Africa.

Prepared by Olivia Bennett and reviewed by editorial team.