Kennedy Appoints Vaccine Critics to Health Advisory Council

New Panel Signals Shift in Public Health Approach

A recent overhaul of a key health advisory council by Minister **Kennedy** has sparked debate, as the appointments include individuals with a history of questioning established vaccine policies. This move comes as vaccine confidence remains a public health concern globally.

Council Shakeup and New Members

Earlier this week, **Kennedy** dismissed the existing committee members, announcing plans to assemble a new advisory body based on personal selections. **Kennedy** himself was known as a prominent vaccine skeptic prior to his ministerial appointment. Among those now seated on the council is **Martin Kulldorff**.

The New York Times reports that **Kulldorff**’s inclusion is anticipated to draw criticism from pro-vaccine advocacy groups. He previously advised the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) on vaccine safety and has voiced opposition to vaccine mandates. He also contributed to a document challenging pandemic-related lockdowns.

“The letter was criticized by, among others, **Anthony Fauci**, the White House’s special adviser during the Coronapandemia, for being dangerous.”

—Reported by multiple sources

Controversial Past and Academic Dismissal

**Martin Kulldorff**, originally from Lund, Sweden, and raised in Umeå, received his education at Umeå University and later worked at Uppsala University. He held a professorship at Harvard University for several years, but was terminated in spring 2024. According to a Folkbladet interview last autumn, his dismissal stemmed from his views on lockdowns and vaccine requirements.

The eight new appointees will fill approximately half of the 17 positions on the council. This restructuring represents a significant change in the composition of the advisory group.

Globally, vaccine hesitancy continues to pose a challenge to public health efforts. According to a 2024 survey by the World Health Organization, vaccine confidence declined in 52 out of 142 countries between 2019 and 2023. WHO Report 2024

Looking Ahead

The appointment of individuals with dissenting views on vaccine policy raises questions about the future direction of public health recommendations. The new council’s influence on policy decisions remains to be seen, but the changes signal a potential shift in approach to public health challenges.