Official announcements from the US Department of Health and Human Services or statements by Robert F. Kennedy Jr.

Trump Orders Vaccine Safety Review Amid Polio Vaccine Controversy

Dec 13, 2024, 07:00 PM

President-elect Donald Trump has announced a comprehensive review of several vaccines, led by Robert F. Kennedy Jr., his nominee for Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS). This review aims to ensure the safety of vaccines, with Trump expressing confidence in Kennedy's expertise on health issues. Kennedy, known for his skepticism towards vaccines, has been involved in discussions about potentially eliminating some vaccines, including the polio vaccine, due to concerns over their safety and efficacy. His advisor, Aaron Siri, has previously petitioned the FDA to revoke approval of the polio vaccine, citing insufficient safety studies. This move has sparked controversy and concern among public health experts and politicians, with Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell, a polio survivor, defending the vaccine's lifesaving impact. Trump has also voiced concerns about the link between vaccines and autism, driving the need for this review. The review could lead to significant changes in vaccine policy, potentially affecting public health initiatives and vaccination programs across the country.