Over 1,000 Health Workers Call on Kennedy to Resign Over Controversial Anti-Vax Policies

A group of over 1,000 former and current employees of the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has called for the resignation of Robert F. Kennedy Jr. They claim his stance on vaccines poses a serious threat to public health.

In a direct letter to Congress, the employees accuse Kennedy of stirring chaos at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). This includes the controversial dismissal of CDC director Susan Monarez, replaced by someone aligned with former President Donald Trump but lacking a scientific background.

This criticism isn’t new. Just days before, nine former CDC officials expressed in a New York Times piece that Kennedy’s actions are alarming and unprecedented in the agency’s history. The workers’ letter, issued by Save HHS, highlights how Kennedy spreads misinformation, which could further jeopardize the nation’s health.

The letter points to several key resignations within the CDC, including noted experts in immunization and infectious diseases. These departures signal a potential crisis in public health leadership at a critical time.

There’s also growing concern about the political nature of recent health appointments. The letter mentions how some members of key advisory panels hold debunked views, like those linking vaccines to autism.

Recent actions by the FDA limit access to updated COVID-19 vaccines, which Kennedy noted on social media. He claimed new guidelines mean vaccines will now be reserved for high-risk individuals only.

The letter argues that policymakers must prioritize science, not politics. It calls for a new health secretary whose decisions are informed by unbiased research, rather than political motives.

Trump himself acknowledged the turbulence within the CDC, attributing the chaos to vaccine-related debates. He previously supported Kennedy during the uproar over Monarez’s termination, which led to significant backlash and even staff protests.

In their letter, the HHS employees stated they’re expressing their views on their own time, emphasizing the non-partisan nature of their work. They believe health policies should rely on sound scientific evidence, not political agendas. A troubling note is that many within HHS feel too intimidated to speak out due to fear of retaliation.

This situation is reminiscent of past public health crises where political interference has hindered effective guidance. Experts warn that the integrity of health agencies is crucial, especially during health emergencies.

As we navigate these challenges, it’s vital to recognize the importance of trusted, scientifically-backed leadership in maintaining public health and safety. For more insights into this situation, you can check credible sources like the CDC and FDA for updates on public health policies.



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