Fri Sep 19 20:52:23 UTC 2025: **News Article:**

**Vaccine Panel Breaks with Tradition, Sparks Controversy Amid Concerns of Scientific Backsliding at HHS**

Washington D.C. – In a move that departs from previous recommendations, a vaccine advisory panel selected by Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has stopped short of recommending universal COVID-19 vaccination for all Americans over six months old. The decision, made Friday, raises concerns about the politicization of vaccine policy under Kennedy’s leadership and a potential backslide in scientific rigor at the agency.

Since the COVID-19 vaccine became available, the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) had advised annual updated shots for all eligible individuals. The latest recommendation suggests vaccinations be administered based on “shared clinical decision-making” between patients and doctors, and only narrowly avoided requiring a prescription. This decision comes amid accusations that Kennedy, known for his vaccine skepticism rooted in misinformation, is steering the agency away from scientifically sound practices.

Former CDC Director Susan Monarez, who testified before a Senate Committee earlier this week, warned of the increased politicization within the agency and alleged she was fired for refusing to rubber-stamp ACIP recommendations without proper scientific backing. Monarez also claimed Kennedy gutted the advisory panel upon assuming his role, replacing members with individuals accused of spreading vaccine misinformation. “Based on what I observed during my tenure, there is a real risk that recommendations could be made restricting access to vaccines for children and others in need, without rigorous scientific review,” Monarez stated.

Medical groups have expressed concerns that adding barriers to vaccination could create confusion and lower inoculation rates, potentially leading to increased spread of the virus. Dr. Sean O’Leary of the American Academy of Pediatrics described the new recommendation as “extraordinarily vague” and warned of “real-time impacts on American children,” alleging clear efforts to “sow distrust” about vaccines during the discussions.

While CDC data indicates that COVID-19 vaccines provide strong protection against severe infection and death, the ACIP meeting focused on concerns over a rare side effect, myocarditis, primarily observed in younger men. Skepticism was particularly directed towards mRNA vaccines, a key technology in the rapid development of COVID-19 vaccines. Kennedy has repeatedly questioned the safety and benefits of mRNA vaccines, a stance widely rejected by leading medical organizations. He announced in August the cancellation of $500 million in mRNA vaccine research.

The CDC must approve the recommendation before it is finalized. The implications of this decision on public health and the integrity of scientific policy at HHS remain to be seen.

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