NEW ORLEANS – A memo from Louisiana’s Surgeon General, Dr. Ralph Abraham, is stirring up concern among health officials. In the memo, he states that the state health department will stop promoting mass vaccinations.
Dr. Jennifer Avegno, New Orleans Health Director, is puzzled. “Every year, we’ve worked with the state on successful vaccination events. What does this mean?” she questions. The lack of clarity on which vaccines are affected adds to her worry.
The memo raises eyebrows, but Dr. Robert Collins, a political analyst, sees a clear motive. “The state government is trying to align with new federal guidelines that follow Trump’s rules,” he explains.
According to the memo, healthcare providers should discuss vaccination risks and benefits with patients. It emphasizes personal choice when it comes to getting vaccinated. Dr. Abraham criticizes previous vaccine mandates, calling them a violation of personal freedom.
Despite the state’s direction, Dr. Avegno insists that New Orleans will continue promoting all kinds of vaccinations. “We won’t follow this. Vaccines are important, and we will keep advocating for them,” she asserts.
Dr. Collins also points out that Dr. Abraham has political ties and a history as a congressman, which might influence his decisions as surgeon general.
This flu season has been particularly severe, with around 13,000 deaths reported across the country. Dr. Avegno highlights the consequences of low vaccination rates by referencing a current measles outbreak in West Texas. “Many are hospitalized due to a preventable disease. It shows the importance of vaccinations,” she notes.
We’ve reached out to the Louisiana Department of Health for more information, but have yet to hear back.
Check out this related article: Louisiana Health Department Shifts Focus: Ending Promotion of Mass Vaccination Efforts
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