WASHINGTON, D.C. – In a surprising move, Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has appointed eight new members to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s vaccine advisory panel after dismissing the previous members.
Breaking: New Appointments to CDC Vaccine Committee
On Wednesday, Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. named a new roster of advisors to the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP), following the dismissal of the entire previous panel. This decision comes amid ongoing debates over vaccine policies and public health strategies.
The newly appointed members include some controversial figures known for their critical views on vaccines, such as Dr. Robert Malone, who has been vocal about his skepticism. These appointments have sparked discussions about the future direction of vaccine recommendations in the United States.
Immediate Impact on Vaccine Policy
The ACIP plays a crucial role in reviewing vaccine data and making recommendations that influence eligibility and insurance coverage. The CDC director must approve these recommendations for them to become official policy.
The eight new advisors are scheduled to participate in the upcoming ACIP meeting from June 25 to 27. With previous members numbering seventeen, the impact of these changes on vaccine policy remains uncertain.
Key Details Emerge
Among the new appointees, Dr. Robert Malone has been a prominent figure in the anti-vaccine movement, often questioning the safety and efficacy of vaccines. His inclusion on the panel has raised concerns among public health experts.
“We all knew this would happen and it’s a national tragedy and a major threat to children’s health and lives,” said Lawrence Gostin, professor of public health law at Georgetown University.
Kennedy defended his choices, stating that the new members are “highly credentialed scientists, leading public-health experts, and some of America’s most accomplished physicians.” He emphasized their commitment to evidence-based medicine.
Industry Response and Expert Analysis
Dr. Paul Offit, a pediatrician specializing in infectious diseases, expressed concerns about the new appointments. “I think the public is not going to be getting the same quality of advice as we had before the purge,” he told CNBC. He noted that the previous committee had greater expertise in key areas.
Offit believes that the recommendations from ACIP may become “less informed” with the new members. His skepticism is shared by others in the medical community who fear the implications for public health.
By the Numbers
- 8 new members appointed to ACIP
- 17 previous members served on the committee
- ACIP meeting scheduled for June 25-27
Background Context
The announcement comes as the CDC continues to monitor vaccine safety and effectiveness amid ongoing public health challenges. The timing is particularly significant as debates over vaccine mandates and misinformation persist.
Kennedy’s decision to overhaul the advisory committee aligns with his history of questioning vaccine safety, a stance that has drawn both support and criticism from various sectors.
Timeline of Events
- April 16, 2025: Kennedy announces new appointments
- Days prior: Entire previous ACIP panel dismissed
- June 25-27, 2025: Scheduled ACIP meeting with new members
What Comes Next
The move represents a significant shift from previous vaccine advisory practices. The new members’ influence on vaccine policy and availability will be closely watched by public health officials and the general public.
As the ACIP prepares for its next meeting, the focus will be on how these changes impact future vaccine recommendations and the broader public health landscape in the U.S.
This is a developing story. Please refresh for updates.