The decision by Secretary RFK Jr. to fire the entire CDC Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices and replace them with individuals who have promoted anti-vaccine misinformation and conspiracy theories is deeply disturbing. It is so egregious that the AMA has called for a Senate probe into these suspicious firings.
Appointing figures like Dr. Robert Malone and Vicky Pebsworth, who have spread unfounded claims about COVID-19 vaccines causing AIDS and hypnotizing Americans, represents a dangerous embrace of pseudoscience over evidence-based medicine.
This panel plays a vital role in setting vaccine policy based on rigorous scientific research and data. Undermining its credibility by stacking it with anti-vaccine advocates lacking relevant expertise threatens to erode public trust in lifesaving immunizations. The new appointees, several of whom were involved with the misinformed Great Barrington Declaration, have repeatedly downplayed the risks of vaccine-preventable diseases and the effectiveness of measures to combat the spread of infectious illnesses like measles and COVID-19.
Ensuring the ACIP remains an impartial body of leading medical and scientific experts is critical to maintaining robust vaccination programs that protect public health.
Congress must take decisive action to remove Secretary Kennedy and his unqualified panel members in favor of individuals committed to following the scientific consensus and global best practices around vaccines.
Rigorous evidence and peer-reviewed research, not conspiracy theories, must guide this crucial decision-making process.
Thank you for taking action to protect the public health of our citizens.
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