All innuendo and conspiracy: RFK Jr.’s vaccine advisory overhaul undermines vaccine confidence, experts say
RFK Jr., as Health and Human Services secretary, removed all 17 members of the CDC’s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP).
He stated the overhaul was needed to 're-establish public confidence' in vaccines, alleging conflicts of interest and rubber-stamping of approvals by former members.
Medical groups, public health leaders, and lawmakers strongly criticized the move, arguing it undermines trust in vaccines, reverses a transparent process, and risks fueling the spread of vaccine-preventable diseases.
Experts, including representatives from the American Medical Association and American Academy of Pediatrics, called the accusations against ACIP unfounded and warned of the danger to children and adults’ health.
This action allows Kennedy to appoint new members, potentially reshaping national vaccine recommendations.