RFK Jr. Backtracks on Vaccine Pledge, Announces Review of Childhood Immunization Schedule

Robert F. Kennedy Jr., the newly appointed Secretary of Health and Human Services, has announced plans to investigate the childhood vaccine schedule, despite earlier promises not to alter it13.

This announcement comes shortly after Kennedy's confirmation as HHS Secretary and contradicts assurances he made to Senator Bill Cassidy during the confirmation process13.

Kennedy's pledge to examine the vaccine schedule coincides with an ongoing measles outbreak in west Texas, primarily affecting unvaccinated individuals3.

The proposed review is part of a broader "Make America Healthy Again" commission, which will also investigate pesticides, food additives, and other potential health concerns3.

Senator Bill Cassidy, who voted to confirm Kennedy based on his promise not to change the vaccine schedule, expressed confidence that the review would confirm the safety and efficacy of current vaccination practices2.

Kennedy's announcement has raised concerns among public health experts, who worry about the potential impact on vaccine confidence and disease prevention efforts1.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices currently determines vaccine recommendations based on rigorous scientific studies and real-world data3.

Kennedy's history of anti-vaccine activism has led some experts, like Dr. Paul Offit, to express skepticism about his intentions as HHS Secretary3.

Sources:

1. https://kffhealthnews.org/morning-breakout/childhood-vaccine-schedule-will-be-scrutinized-rfk-jr-pledges/

2. https://insidehealthpolicy.com/daily-news/cassidy-confident-rfk-s-childhood-vaccine-review-will-confirm-safety

3. https://www.latimes.com/world-nation/story/2025-02-18/kennedy-says-panel-will-examine-childhood-vaccine-schedule-after-promising-not-to-change-it