Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has recently dismissed the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP), which had been tasked with guiding vaccine protocols in the United States.
The ACIP, which consisted of 17 experts in medicine and public health, was responsible for evaluating vaccine safety and formulating immunization recommendations. Its members were selected during both Democratic and Republican tenures.
In a Wall Street Journal article, Kennedy expressed concerns that the vaccine debate had become overly politicized, prompting the need for a new panel to regain public confidence.
“[T]he U.S. Department of Health and Human Services is putting the restoration of public trust above any pro- or antivaccine agenda,” Kennedy stated. “The public must know that unbiased science guides the recommendations from our health agencies. This will ensure the American people receive the safest vaccines possible.”
During his confirmation, Kennedy assured Sen. Bill Cassidy (R-LA) of the ACIP’s continuation. Following the panel’s dismissal, Cassidy acknowledged on social media his intent to collaborate with Kennedy to ensure the new group comprises qualified professionals. However, Cassidy did not comment when questioned by CNN’s Manu Raju about his vote to confirm Kennedy.
“I’m not going to comment on that,” Cassidy responded.
Kennedy had previously halted ACIP meetings regarding upcoming flu vaccine discussions.
Known for promoting anti-vaccine conspiracy theories, Kennedy has notably propagated the debunked theory linking childhood vaccines to autism.
In a recent development, Kennedy announced that the CDC would cease recommending the COVID-19 vaccine for pregnant women and healthy children.
Meanwhile, Kennedy’s department is grappling with a measles outbreak originating in the Southwest and spreading nationwide. Despite the situation, Kennedy has not explicitly recommended the MMR vaccine, known for its efficacy against measles.
Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-VT) voiced his concerns in a statement, arguing that Kennedy’s decision to remove the ACIP panel undermines public confidence more than it restores it.
“Firing independent vaccine experts is a dangerous, unprecedented move that will make it harder for the American people to access vaccines that are safe, effective, and essential to saving lives,” Sanders commented. “For decades, Secretary Kennedy has spread lies and conspiracy theories about vaccines. Now, with Trump’s backing, he’s doubling down on misinformation that will lead to preventable illness and death.”
There has been no announcement from Kennedy or the White House regarding the timeline for appointing a new ACIP panel.
The post Kennedy fires vaccine safety panel, breaking promise to Senators appeared first on American Journal News.
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