Osterholm Update Episode 184: Fool's Gold: Reframing the Science
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May 29, 2025 Explore the latest changes in COVID vaccine policy and the implications for public health as the FDA updates its framework. Discover the rise of a new COVID variant in Asia and learn about the ongoing measles outbreak in North America. The hosts critique the notion of a 'gold standard of science' in federally funded research, questioning its effectiveness. They also discuss the resilience of the public health field, emphasizing community engagement and the importance of transparency in health decisions.
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Public Health Graduates Dedication
- Dr. Michael Osterholm dedicated this episode to recent graduates, especially those entering public health.
- He shared a hopeful story about the rebuilding of the World Trade Center as a metaphor for public health's future resurgence.
New FDA COVID Vaccine Framework
- The FDA changed COVID vaccine policy to limit approvals to high-risk groups and require new trials for low-risk groups.
- This shift bypassed advisory committees and complicates vaccine availability for healthy people under 65.
Concerns Over Vaccine Policy Process
- The Vaccine Integrity Project supports reviewing COVID vaccine policies but condemns the bypass of open advisory committee processes.
- Transparent expert input is critical to maintaining public trust in vaccine decisions.