The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has been instructed by Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. to stop promoting the benefits of flu vaccines through paid advertising campaigns. Instead, the ads will focus on informed consent, or the idea that people should be notified of all risks and benefits associated with vaccination.
The decision is seen as a significant shift in the US approach to vaccinations, and could potentially undermine public confidence in vaccine effectiveness. Kennedy’s office has been critical of the CDC’s traditional messaging on vaccines, which emphasizes the proven benefits of flu shots.
Influential vaccine advisory committee members have also been called into question, with rumors that some may be removed due to conflicts of interest. The move is part of a broader effort by Kennedy to reframe vaccination discussions around informed consent.
Critics argue that shifting the focus from benefits to risks could lead to decreased vaccination rates. However, proponents of Kennedy’s approach point out that ensuring people are aware of potential risks can help build trust in vaccines.
The CDC will continue to promote the health benefits of flu shots on its official website and other platforms, but the paid advertising campaigns have been halted.
Source: https://www.statnews.com/2025/02/20/cdc-vaccine-promotions-rfk-jr-informed-consent