One of his most significant actions was the dismissal of all 17 members of a CDC advisory panel on vaccine policy.Below is a summary of recent vaccine-related policy changes under Kennedy’s leadership:
FDA Issues Independent Recommendations for Influenza Vaccines
Announced: March 13, 2025
The FDA independently selected virus strains for the 2025–2026 flu vaccines, bypassing the usual advisory committee process. Officials stated this would not affect vaccine availability or timing for the public.
Launch of Environmental Toxin Studies Tied to Autism
Announced: April 16, 2025
Kennedy initiated federal studies on potential environmental causes of autism, including vaccines, despite a lack of supporting scientific evidence. The move reflects his long-held views on environmental health risks.
US Autism Project to Use Medicare and Medicaid Data
Announced: May 7, 2025
Federal agencies will build a database using Medicare and Medicaid data to research the causes of autism. This effort is part of a broader initiative to investigate potential links between vaccines and autism.
Stricter Requirements for COVID-19 Boosters
Announced: May 20, 2025
The FDA will require new clinical trials for annual COVID-19 booster shots, limiting their approval to older adults and high-risk individuals. This shift brings U.S. policy more in line with international guidelines.
COVID-19 Vaccine No Longer Recommended for Healthy Children, Pregnant Women
Announced: May 27, 2025
The U.S. government has withdrawn its recommendation for routine COVID vaccination in healthy children and pregnant women. This decision bypassed the CDC’s traditional advisory framework.
Cancellation of Moderna’s Bird Flu Vaccine Contract
Announced: May 28, 2025
The federal government terminated its contract with Moderna for the development of a bird flu vaccine, citing failure to meet scientific benchmarks. Moderna is now exploring other options for the vaccine.
Dismissal of CDC Vaccine Advisory Panel
Announced: June 9, 2025
Kennedy removed all members of the CDC’s vaccine advisory committee, which traditionally guides vaccine policy and usage. He claims the move is intended to rebuild public trust in health institutions. However, experts warn it could erode confidence in public health decisions.
