"A Shocking Move by the Health Minister" Robert F. Kennedy Jr. discards vaccine experts panel at CDC
Vaccine expert panel faces dismissal at the hands of Robert F. Kennedy Jr.
Get the latests on this developing story here: ntv.de
In the U.S., Health Minister Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has made a bold move by discarding the entire panel (ACIP) of vaccine experts at the CDC's disease control agency. According to a statement from the Department of Health, the minister aims to restore public trust in vaccine science by ensuring that recommendations are based on unbiased and transparent processes, free from conflicts of interest.
The advisory committee on immunization practices, consisting of 17 members, has been dismissed, and Kennedy is now hunting for replacements. The panel, a highly professional group of scientists, doctors, and other specialists according to former FDA chief scientist Jesse Goodman, had never been accused of bias or conflicts of interest. Goodman expressed his concerns about political interference, stating, "This is a tragedy."
Kennedy, a vaccine skeptic and frequent critic of vaccine safety and efficacy, alleged that the previous panel was riddled with conflicts and that the decision on vaccine approval lies with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The panel advises the CDC on which population groups would benefit most from an already approved vaccine and when they should receive it. However, some critics argue that Kennedy is using this opportunity to prioritize perspectives that align with his own beliefs.
The dismissal caused a stir on social media, with some praising Kennedy for taking action and others questioning the motives behind it. As a result, shares of vaccine manufacturer Moderna and the U.S.-listed shares of BioNTech fell by more than one percent, while Pfizer gave up only slightly in extended trading.
In recent years, Kennedy has been vocal about his doubts regarding the safety and effectiveness of vaccines, holding positions that contradict scientific evidence. The minister's white-glove treatment of the panel has sparked concerns among public health experts that politics may be overshadowing science, potentially compromising the future recommendations made by the advisory committee.
Sources:
- ntv.de
- lme/rts
1) This unexpected move by Health Minister Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has raised concerns in the community, as he has dismissed the ACIP panel at the CDC's disease control agency and is seeking replacements, despite the panel's reputable background in health and medical-conditions.
2) The dismissal has sparked a debate in the realm of health-and-wellness, politics, and general-news, with some praising Kennedy for his actions and others questioning his motives, especially considering his skepticism about vaccine science and safety.
3) The shake-up in the advisory committee is not only affecting the vaccine industry but also raising questions about the objectivity of science in policy decisions, potentially impacting the future recommendations made for health in the U.S. and beyond.
