U.S. Health Secretary RFK Jr. removes all 17 CDC vaccine advisers, sparking backlash from medical groups and raising fears of politicized health decisions.
Major Overhaul of CDC Vaccine Panel Sparks Controversy
U.S. Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has dismissed all 17 members of the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP), the scientific body that guides the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) on vaccine use. The announcement, made Monday, has drawn strong criticism from leading medical and public health organizations.
Decision Tied to Conflict of Interest Claims
Kennedy, a prominent critic of vaccines before entering public office, justified the removals by citing what he called “entrenched conflicts of interest” among committee members. Writing in The Wall Street Journal, he argued that “a clean sweep is needed to re-establish public confidence in vaccine science.” The Biden administration had appointed the now-dismissed members.
Health Leaders Warn of Politicization
Medical leaders expressed alarm at the unprecedented shake-up. Dr. Georges Benjamin, executive director of the American Public Health Association, labeled the move “a coup” and said it threatens the committee’s independence. Dr. Bruce A. Scott, president of the American Medical Association, warned that the action “undermines trust” and could contribute to falling vaccination rates nationwide.
Replacements and Meeting Timeline Unclear
Although Kennedy pledged to appoint new members and reconvene the panel in two weeks in Atlanta, he has yet to name any replacements. Critics, including Republican Senator Bill Cassidy of Louisiana, have expressed concern that future appointees may lack proper scientific credentials or impartiality. Cassidy said he would continue discussions with Kennedy to ensure qualified experts are selected.
Public Website Scrubbed, CDC in Limbo
Shortly after the announcement, the CDC removed the ACIP member roster from its website, fueling further speculation about the future direction of U.S. vaccine policy. The committee’s February meeting had already been abruptly postponed earlier this year, indicating turbulence since Kennedy’s confirmation.
Growing Uncertainty for Vaccine Policy Direction
The mass dismissal follows Kennedy’s controversial decision to alter federal COVID-19 vaccine recommendations without first consulting the ACIP. This move contradicted assurances he gave during his confirmation process, raising doubts about his commitment to maintaining established scientific review protocols.
National Health at Stake Amid Declining Trust
With U.S. vaccination rates slipping and preventable diseases resurging, experts fear Kennedy’s shake-up could destabilize one of the country’s most critical public health mechanisms. Advocacy groups have vowed to closely monitor his actions going forward, warning that the consequences of eroding scientific norms could be severe and far-reaching.
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