Slate News What Next | Vaccine Skeptics Just Scored a Big Win
Jun 16, 2025
Noel Brewer, a Gillings Distinguished Professor in Public Health at UNC and former CDC Advisory Committee member, discusses the shocking dismissal of the committee's members by Health Secretary RFK Jr. They dive into the implications for vaccine confidence and public trust amidst rising skepticism. Brewer highlights how the committee's role affects vaccine guidance during public health crises and the challenges in bridging the gap between vaccine-hesitant individuals and credible recommendations. This conversation unpacks the delicate balance of health policy and public perception.
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Dr. Brewer's Firing Unexpected
- Dr. Noel Brewer found out he was fired from the CDC's vaccine advisory committee via a journalist's email before official notice.
- He immediately informed colleagues and received official government emails soon after.
Vaccine Access Trumps Confidence
- Vaccine confidence is hard to change; access and availability matter most for increasing vaccination.
- Cultural norms around vaccination can influence people but don't guarantee higher uptake.
ACIP Advises, FDA Approves
- The role of ACIP is to recommend vaccine usage, not approve them; the FDA approves vaccines.
- ACIP advises who should get vaccines and when, after FDA's legal approval.