Massachusetts Public Health Commissioner Dr. Robbie Goldstein has dedicated his career to infectious diseases. Trained at Tufts University, he also teaches at Harvard Medical School and has worked at the CDC. In 2023, he took on a pivotal role as the state’s lead on public health issues.
Today, Dr. Goldstein finds himself battling misinformation more than actual diseases. He shared that, “Fighting this disinformation is 90% of my job.” This reality was highlighted during a recent news conference in Boston.
His comments came just before a key vote by a federal vaccine panel, which is considering whether newborns should receive the hepatitis B vaccine on their birth day. This panel operates under the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, which has been led by vaccine skeptic Robert F. Kennedy Jr.
Dr. Goldstein emphasized the urgency of accurate information following previous guidance that falsely linked vaccines to autism. There’s a growing concern that outdated vaccine policies are being reconsidered at the federal level.
At the news conference, Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey backed Dr. Goldstein’s call for science-based recommendations. She stated, “In Massachusetts, we follow the science and listen to our medical experts.” This commitment comes as the CDC’s reputation continues to suffer due to mixed messaging during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Recent polls show dwindling trust in health agencies like the CDC and FDA. According to a KFF survey, less than half of Americans feel these organizations can effectively handle vaccine safety. This skepticism spans party lines, with many believing agencies prioritize political interests over scientific evidence.
Social media often showcases this skepticism, filled with comments doubting vaccine efficacy and safety. One user criticized, “They never were evidence-based… people are like sheep.” Such sentiments reflect a broader distrust fueled by misinformation.
Dr. Goldstein pointed out the remarkable success of the hepatitis B vaccine since its introduction in 1991. Infection rates have plummeted by 99%. He celebrated this as a major public health win, saying it shows the power of science-driven policy.
Katie Blair, director of Massachusetts Families for Vaccines, echoed these struggles. She noted that the group often faces backlash online, especially from new parents in social media groups.
During the press event, Healey insisted on the importance of providing accurate information to all citizens. “In Massachusetts, we’re going to continue to focus on what works,” she emphasized.
Dr. Goldstein concluded by stating that the best approach is to spread the truth consistently, hoping people will eventually take notice.
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