CDC Official Resigns Amid Criticism of Vaccine Policy
On Thursday, Robert F. Kennedy Jr., executive director of the Centers for Anesthesia and Human Services (HHS), commented on the roles of experts in areas like measles and Covid-19. He was speaking about Dr. Demetre Daskalakis, who previously led the CDC’s National Center for Immunization and Respiratory Diseases.
Daskalakis shared his thoughts during an interview with Kaitlan Collins on CNN. He mentioned, “No one in my center has ever explained any of these topics to him.” It sounds like there’s been some serious miscommunication.
He added, “Perhaps Kennedy has found alternate experts he trusts more than the CDC, which some around the world consider to be the leading authority in this field.” That’s a pretty bold statement.
Oka reached out to HHS for their perspective on this situation.
Daskalakis resigned from his position on Wednesday, following the disapproval from CDC Director Susan Monares, who stated that the White House’s approach “doesn’t align” with the president’s agenda.
He, along with other officials, criticized the new policies for relying on political motives rather than scientific evidence. That’s quite a serious accusation.
A former CDC official mentioned that Kennedy seems to be getting information from some sources, but he hasn’t consulted CDC experts, especially given the recent measles outbreaks that have affected numerous states.
“He’s getting details from somewhere, but it’s not from us, the leading experts in this area. […] He hasn’t taken us up on our offers to explain these critical issues,” Daskalakis continued.
His statements echo his resignation letter, where he noted, “We are seven months away from the new administration, and the subject matter experts at my center have never briefed the secretary. I’m unsure who the secretary is listening to, but it certainly isn’t us.”
Kennedy has become well-known as a vaccine critic, and his confirmation hearing raised questions about his suitability for overseeing public health.
In recent months, the Secretary has dismissed members of a committee intended to guide CDC officials on vaccination improvements and has replaced them with individuals who are less supportive of vaccines.
