 "US Secretary of Health and Human Services Robert F Kennedy Jr. File Image/Reuters")
US Health Secretary Robert F Kennedy Jr . on Monday removed all 17 members of a key vaccine advisory panel at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), promising to replace them with his own appointees within two weeks.
The move sparked criticism from major medical groups, who said it undermines trust in vaccine science. Kennedy, previously known for his anti-vaccine views, argued in a Wall Street Journal op-ed that the panel members had conflicts of interest and that a “clean sweep” was necessary to rebuild public confidence.
The panel, known as the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP), was filled during the Biden administration and is typically considered nonpartisan. Critics say Kennedy broke promises not to interfere with the panel and worry his future picks won’t be seen as impartial.
Dr. Georges Benjamin of the American Public Health Association called the ouster “a coup” and said the group would closely monitor Kennedy’s actions. Dr. Bruce Scott of the American Medical Association warned the decision could lead to lower vaccination rates and more disease outbreaks.
The committee had already faced delays under Kennedy’s leadership, including the sudden cancellation of a February meeting and changes to COVID-19 guidance without consulting the panel. The CDC’s webpage listing the panel members was taken down Monday evening after the announcement.