Article Summary:
US Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has announced the dismissal of the entire 17-member Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP), which has historically guided the federal government’s vaccine recommendations. Kennedy claimed the group is “plagued with conflicts of interest” and that many of the members were “last-minute appointees” of the Biden administration.
This unprecedented move to remove the entire ACIP panel prematurely has sparked outrage from public health experts and medical organizations. They argue that the ACIP has a rigorous conflict-of-interest policy and is composed of highly qualified pediatricians, epidemiologists, and immunologists. Critics suggest Kennedy’s decision is driven by his longstanding criticism of federal vaccine policy and safety, rather than any legitimate concerns about the committee’s integrity.
The move is seen as a significant threat to public health, as it will “fundamentally destabilize vaccination in America,” according to a dismissed ACIP member. Medical organizations have strongly condemned the decision, stating it undermines trust, contradicts scientific expertise, and will fuel the spread of vaccine-preventable illnesses. Some are considering creating a parallel committee to the ACIP that they can trust.
Article Excerpt:
“The firing of the ACIP represents one of the darkest days in modern public health,” Dr. Mike Osterholm, the Vaccine Integrity Project founder said. “Mr. Kennedy has no interest in science or saving lives. We have entered into a dangerous time for the health of the country.”