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Former CDC Directors testify to Senate: Vaccine Schedule Changes Lack Scientific Basis
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Published: October 25, 2023 | Last Updated: October 25, 2023
On Wednesday, former Centers for Disease Control and prevention (CDC) Director Susan Monarez, PhD, testified before a Senate panel, asserting that proposed alterations to the childhood vaccine schedule - encompassing vaccines for measles, chickenpox, hepatitis B, and COVID-19 - are unsupported by scientific evidence.She was joined in her testimony by Debra Houry, MD, MPH, former chief medical officer of the CDC, and one of three senior CDC officials who resigned last month.
CDC Internal Turmoil Spotlighted
The Senate hearing brought to light meaningful internal turmoil within the CDC,particularly concerning changes to vaccine policy and the recent dismissal of Dr. Monarez. Lawmakers rigorously questioned witnesses regarding the conspicuous lack of scientific data justifying the proposed revisions to the childhood immunization schedule. Both Monarez and Houry stated under oath that they had not been presented with any supporting data and voiced grave concerns about the integrity of the decision-making process.
Allegations of Political Interference
A central point of contention during the hearing was the alleged role of Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. Witnesses testified that Kennedy Jr. allegedly pressured Dr. monarez to approve vaccine recommendations without the backing of evidence. Further allegations included the complete replacement of all members of the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP).
both Monarez and Houry highlighted issues of transparency, alleged censorship, and the exclusion of experienced CDC experts from crucial policy discussions. Concerns were also raised about the qualifications of the newly appointed ACIP members and the potential unreliability of their recommendations.
Politicizing Vaccines: A Threat to Public Health
Monarez and Houry jointly warned that the politicization of vaccine policy poses a serious threat to public health. They argued that weakening or undermining established, evidence-based recommendations risks exacerbating vaccine hesitancy and possibly triggering outbreaks of preventable diseases.
weakening established recommendations risks fueling vaccine hesitancy and triggering new outbreaks of preventable diseases.
Current Recommended Childhood Vaccine Schedule (as of October 2023)
| Vaccine | Recommended Age(s) |
|---|---|
| Hepatitis B | Birth, 1-2 months, 6-18 months |
| Rotavirus | 2, 4, 6 months |
| DTaP (Diphtheria, Tetanus, Pertussis) | 2, 4, 6, 15-18 months, 4-6 years |
| Hib (Haemophilus influenzae type b) | 2, 4, 6, 12-15 months |
| Polio (IPV) | 2, 4, 6-18 months, 4-6 years |
| MMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella) | 12-15 months, 4-6 years |
| varicella (Chickenpox) | 12-15 months, 4-6 years |
Note: This table represents a simplified overview. Consult with a healthcare professional for personalized vaccination advice.
