Seventeen experts ousted from a US vaccine advisory panel published an essay criticizing Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s actions. Kennedy dismissed the entire panel and replaced it with eight new members, including individuals with anti-vaccine stances. The dismissed experts expressed concern that these changes could hinder vaccination efforts, reduce access to life-saving vaccines, and increase preventable illnesses. The panel's dismissal followed Kennedy's decision to withdraw COVID-19 vaccination recommendations for specific groups, prompting resignations among CDC staff. The new panel is slated to meet soon to vote on various vaccine recommendations.

Prepared by Olivia Bennett and reviewed by editorial team.