1. United States
2. Utah
3. Letter

I am writing to express my grave concern over the recent statements made by Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. regarding vaccines and public health. His unfounded claims about Tylenol causing autism and his apparent strategy to undermine our national immunization program pose a severe threat to public health and must be addressed immediately. Secretary Kennedy's statements, along with those of former President Trump, are not only scientifically inaccurate but dangerously misleading. They exaggerate the number of vaccines given to infants and make baseless connections between common medications and autism. These claims fly in the face of decades of rigorous scientific research and consensus. Of particular concern is the apparent targeting of the MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) vaccine. Recent decisions by the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) to restrict access to the MMRV (MMR + varicella) vaccine appear to be a precursor to further limitations. There are indications that attempts may be made to break up the MMR vaccine into separate components, which would effectively make it unavailable to many families. The potential consequences of these actions are dire. If MMR vaccination rates decrease, we could see a resurgence of measles, rubella, and mumps – diseases that have been largely controlled through widespread immunization. This would represent a significant step backward for public health in our nation. I urge you to take immediate action on two fronts: 1. Initiate proceedings to remove Secretary Kennedy from his position. His promotion of scientifically discredited theories is incompatible with the role of safeguarding public health. 2. Reaffirm and strengthen our commitment to science-based public health policy, particularly regarding vaccines. This should include maintaining full access to the MMR vaccine and resisting any attempts to separate its components. The health and safety of our communities, especially our children, depend on sound, evidence-based policies. We cannot allow misinformation and pseudoscience to dictate our public health strategies. Please act swiftly to address this urgent matter and protect the integrity of our national immunization program.