Bloomberg Businessweek ICYMI: How RFK Jr. Is Reshaping Vaccine Regulations in the US
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Jun 27, 2025 
Damian Garde, a seasoned health reporter for Bloomberg News, dives into the transformative efforts of RFK Jr. in reshaping U.S. vaccine regulations. The discussion highlights the recent ACIP decision to endorse only thimerosal-free flu shots, aimed at addressing public concerns despite long-standing evidence of safety. Garde explores the implications for childhood vaccination guidelines and global vaccination funding, raising critical questions about the influence of political figures on public trust and health policy.
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Concerns About Vaccine Panel Changes
- The CDC vaccine schedule is recommended, not mandatory, and reopening it can be scientific but also politicized.
- The new committee led by RFK Jr. raises concern due to his history of vaccine safety misinformation.
CDC Vaccine Approval Process
- Vaccine approval includes rigorous FDA review followed by CDC advisory panel evaluation.
- The CDC panel also considers cost-effectiveness and real-world evidence beyond FDA data.
US vs. European Vaccine Schedules
- The US vaccine schedule targets roughly the same diseases as major European countries.
- Differences arise in vaccine combinations used and the number of shots administered.