RFK Jr.’s CDC Panel Ditches Some Flu Shots Based on Anti-Vaccine Junk Data

A vaccine panel led by Robert F. Kennedy Jr., an anti-vaccine advocate and health secretary, voted to drop federal recommendations for flu shots containing thimerosal, a preservative with a proven safety record. The panel made this decision after hearing a misleading presentation from an anti-vaccine activist. Thimerosal is only used in multi-dose vials of seasonal flu vaccines to prevent bacterial and fungal growth. Despite the vote, most flu shots in the US do not contain thimerosal, but its use is more common in other countries where it makes vaccines cheaper. If other countries follow the US's lead, it could increase vaccine costs and lead to fewer vaccinations. The appointment of Robert F. Kennedy Jr. as health secretary is concerning, especially given his anti-vaccine stance. This is a departure from the Trump administration's previous efforts, such as Operation Warp Speed, which successfully accelerated the development and distribution of COVID-19 vaccines. Trump's decision to appoint Kennedy Jr. is seen as an attempt to appeal to anti-vaccine groups. The consequences of this decision could be severe, particularly if another pandemic were to occur in the next few years. The lack of scientific evidence presented during the panel's meeting is alarming and highlights the dangers of misinformation in healthcare decision-making.