In brief
In Atlanta, Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s vaccine advisory committee convenes to review recommendations on vaccines including COVID-19, hepatitis B, and chickenpox. The agenda hints at possible rollbacks of previously established recommendations for the hepatitis B vaccine. Critics, including public health officials and pediatricians, express concerns about disregarding successful practices that have significantly reduced infectious disease rates among children. The committee's deliberations come amidst growing scrutiny over Kennedy's leadership and the composition of the advisory panel.
ATLANTA (AP) — Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s new vaccine advisory committee meets Thursday to begin a two-day session focused on shots against COVID-19, hepatitis B, and chickenpox.
Votes are expected Thursday afternoon on hepatitis B and on a combined shot against measles, mumps, rubella, and chickenpox. However, Department of Health and Human Services officials have not detailed specific proposals under discussion.
Committee agenda documents suggest the group may be considering a partial rollback of the longstanding recommendation that all U.S. children receive the hepatitis B vaccine at birth, a practice endorsed by the American Academy of Pediatrics and numerous public health experts.
Dr. Mysheika Roberts, health director in Columbus, Ohio, emphasized the importance of the vaccine, stating that infection rates have significantly declined since its implementation. “If it’s not broken, why change it?” she questioned, expressing frustration at her dismissal from the panel by Kennedy.
The committee’s chair, Martin Kulldorff, has suggested that the MMRV combination vaccine not be administered to children under four, referencing rare cases of fever seizures linked to the first dose.
Critics argue there is insufficient new safety data to warrant revisiting vaccination recommendations, fearing it could instill unnecessary doubt among parents about the safety and effectiveness of vaccines. The Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) historically influences CDC vaccination policies, and leaders generally accept their recommendations.
Kennedy, previously an antivaccine activist, generated controversy by restructuring the committee with members who have anti-vaccine beliefs. This became especially alarming after he announced plans to remove COVID-19 vaccines from CDC recommendations meant for healthy children and pregnant women, sparking backlash from medical professionals.
The committee is set to provide guidance on COVID-19 vaccines on Friday, amid rising public health concerns and legislative actions from various states aimed at maintaining vaccine access.
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Ungar reported from Louisville, Kentucky.
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