US Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has made several significant changes to the nation’s vaccine advisory committee, drawing criticism from experts and raising concerns about vaccine safety. The 17 voting members of the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) were suddenly removed from their positions, leaving a small group of replacements to discuss critical issues.
Kennedy’s actions come amid growing anti-vax sentiment in the US. He recently terminated $1 billion in funding for Gavi, a global health initiative that supports vaccination efforts worldwide. Kennedy also appointed Lyn Redwood, the former president of Children’s Health Defense, an anti-vaccine organization he used to chair, as a special government employee.
A recent scientific document on vaccine safety was removed from the ACIP website due to concerns about its authenticity. The move has sparked questions about Kennedy’s motivations and the impact on vaccine recommendations. As the new replacements meet for the first time, they will face significant challenges in addressing these concerns and ensuring public health.
Source: https://www.theatlantic.com/health/archive/2025/06/rfk-acip-american-vaccine-policy/683364