Kennedy to Lead Review of Childhood Vaccine Schedule Despite Assurance of No Changes

WASHINGTON — Robert F. Kennedy Jr. is now the top health official in the United States. During his confirmation, he promised a senator he wouldn’t change the vaccination schedule. However, he recently spoke to thousands of health agency employees and expressed plans to investigate that very schedule, which currently protects against diseases like measles and polio.

“Nothing is off limits,” Kennedy said. He indicated that the review would include not just vaccines, but also pesticides, food additives, and even the effects of cell phone radiation.

This announcement came amid a measles outbreak in West Texas, predominantly affecting unvaccinated individuals. It also followed significant job cuts at the Health and Human Services agency, where many employees were let go.

Kennedy has set up a new commission called “Make America Healthy Again.” This group will look into how various factors, like vaccines and chemicals, may be linked to rising health issues, including diabetes and obesity. This initiative was ordered by Donald Trump shortly after Kennedy took office.

The commission aims to develop a strategy for improving children’s health within six months. Kennedy mentioned that they would explore topics that have previously been overlooked or not thoroughly examined.

While Kennedy has not said he wants to change the vaccination schedule, his new investigation raises concerns. Senator Bill Cassidy, who initially supported Kennedy’s nomination, had strong reservations about his past vaccine skepticism. Cassidy emphasized that vaccines are safe and effective during a Senate speech.

Kennedy’s assurance to Cassidy was that he would uphold the guidelines set by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). These guidelines help pediatricians determine the right ages for administering vaccines, based on rigorous annual reviews of the latest safety data.

When asked for a response to Kennedy’s recent comments, Cassidy’s office did not provide any remarks.

Kennedy has been known for his controversial views on vaccines, especially regarding COVID-19. Despite insisting he is not against vaccinations, some experts, like Dr. Paul Offit, are skeptical. Offit believes Kennedy may work to limit vaccine access, seeing him as an activist against vaccines.

During his speech, Kennedy asked HHS employees to keep an open mind about him and to create a positive working relationship, even joking about how he understands why some might hesitate to work for him.