Economist Podcasts Call the shots: vaccine cuts imperil global health
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Sep 2, 2025 
Natasha Loder, Health editor at The Economist, and Sarah Burke, Mexico bureau chief at The Economist, dive into pressing health issues arising from political turmoil in the U.S. They discuss the fallout from conflicts over mRNA vaccine policies and the severe implications of funding cuts on global health. The conversation shifts to Britain's groundbreaking supercomputer, Isambard AI, and its potential in advancing research. Lastly, they explore the surge of Japanese and Korean culture in Mexico, revealing a fascinating cultural exchange reshaping interests.
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US Cuts Threaten mRNA Research
- RFK Jr.'s vaccine scepticism has led to firing, resignations and large funding cuts targeting mRNA research.
- Experts warn this undermines US pandemic preparedness and could ripple into global health setbacks.
Why mRNA Is A Platform Technology
- mRNA vaccines deliver a genetic message to cells telling them to make a piece of virus, then disappear.
- Their design flexibility makes them faster to produce and promising for personalised medicines.
Moderna Contract Cancellation
- RFK Jr. cancelled a major Moderna contract for a bird-flu mRNA vaccine and cut 22 other contracts.
- Observers fear the US will be less prepared if avian flu gains human transmissibility.