A critical meeting between the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the Influenza Advisory Board to establish the components of the next influenza season’s vaccine was canceled on March 13. This decision has raised serious concerns about the timely availability of a safe and effective influenza vaccine for the 2025-26 season.
Normally, this meeting takes place in March to give vaccine manufacturers enough time to produce and distribute sufficient amounts of vaccine before the onset of the flu season. Without it, the consequences could be catastrophic, including public health crises, economic disruption, and increased medical costs.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately 47% of Americans receive an influenza vaccine each year, with those over 65 receiving around 51%. The mortality rate from influenza is particularly concerning among seniors, with 90% of all flu-related deaths occurring in people aged 65 and older.
If a safe and effective influenza vaccine is not available, it will impact every aspect of society, including the economy and public safety. Medical costs will increase as hospitals become overwhelmed with cases, and police, fire, and emergency services may be compromised if their personnel are not vaccinated.
Former Air Force public health officer Rich DiPentima warns that canceling this meeting ignores science and shows a lack of concern for the protection of the public from this potentially severe disease. Dr. Tina Tan, president of the Infectious Disease Society of America, also expressed concerns, stating that this decision pits everyone at risk.
The cancellation of this meeting raises questions about Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s priorities as head of the Department of Health and Human Services. As the duty and obligation to protect the health and safety of the American people, it is unclear whether he is putting his ideology ahead of the nation’s well-being.
Source: https://www.concordmonitor.com/influenza-health-and-human-services-Robert-Kennedy-RFK-Jr-opinion-My-Turn-Concord-Monitor-59945468