Katalin Kariko and Drew Weissman received the WHO Award for Global Health for their mRNA vaccine contributions.

Their nucleoside-modified mRNA platform bypasses adverse immunologic responses.

Both scientists are Nobel Prize winners.

Their discovery has fundamentally changed the understanding of mRNA's interaction with the immune system.

Barbados Prime Minister Mia Mottley was also awarded for her leadership in climate action and health.

The WHO director-general commended Kariko and Weissman's work in improving global health.