The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), under the leadership of Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., plans to alter how vaccines are tested. This shift includes requiring all new vaccines to undergo placebo-controlled trials before receiving approval. An HHS spokesperson stated that this represents a significant change from previous practices.
In placebo-controlled trials, participants either receive the vaccine or an inert substance like a saline shot, with results compared afterward. While this method is common for vaccines targeting new pathogens, experts argue it is unnecessary and potentially unethical for well-researched diseases such as measles and polio, where effective vaccines already exist.
HHS has not clarified which vaccines will be subject to this new requirement or defined what constitutes a “new vaccine.” However, the flu vaccine, regularly updated annually, will not be affected. Concerns have been raised about the potential impact on coronavirus vaccines and the broader implications for public health.
Critics, including medical and public health experts, worry that these changes could reduce vaccine availability, increase costs, and undermine public trust in immunizations. Paul Offit, director of the Vaccine Education Center at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, expressed concern about the potential erosion of the U.S. vaccine infrastructure.
Secretary Kennedy has a history of skepticism toward vaccines, advocating for more rigorous safety testing. HHS defends the decision, emphasizing transparency and accountability. However, many experts argue that the current systems for vaccine approval and monitoring are sufficient and effective.
This policy shift could slow vaccine development and approval processes, potentially leaving more people vulnerable to preventable diseases. — new from The Washington Post