Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. dismissed every member of the CDC's Advisory Committee on Immunisation Practices (ACIP) to replace them with his own team, a move criticized by major health officials. Critics argue this action compromises vaccine-related trust and includes false claims of conflict of interest among the former members. Despite Kennedy's assertion that this 'clean sweep' is necessary for restoring confidence in vaccine science, opponents warn it risks public health and access to vaccinations, suggesting it politicizes a historically non-partisan board.
Kennedy insists the decision was taken on merit since several members had many conflicts of interest while they were holding a position on the board.
Tom Frieden accused Kennedy of "politicising" the Advisory Committee on Immunisation Practices (ACIP), warning that it could undermine public trust established through years of commitment and hard work.
"We’ll look back at this as a grave mistake that sacrificed decades of scientific rigour, undermined public trust, and opened the door for fringe theories rather than facts," he added.
Frieden says the health secretary's actions were based on false conflict of interest claims and sets "a dangerous and unprecedented action that makes our families less safe" by potentially reducing vaccine access for millions.
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