For decades, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), along with numerous other respected organizations, has played a vital role in shaping national immunization policies through its involvement with the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP). This collaborative, science-driven process has been fundamental in ensuring that immunization guidelines are based on the best available evidence, with the health and well-being of children and communities at the forefront.
However, recent developments have sent shockwaves through the public health community. The dismissal of key committee members from ACIP has not only undermined the credibility of this historically trusted process but has also raised serious concerns about the future of immunization policy in the United States.
A Dangerous Shift in Immunization Decision-Making
In a statement reflecting widespread concern, AAP President Dr. Susan Kressly emphasized the gravity of these dismissals. According to Dr. Kressly, removing experienced, knowledgeable voices from the ACIP threatens the integrity of the entire immunization policymaking framework. Without a balanced, science-guided committee, decisions that directly impact the health of millions—particularly children—risk being swayed by ideology or political pressure rather than medical evidence.
For parents, healthcare providers, and public health professionals, this represents more than just bureaucratic reshuffling. It’s a clear signal that the systems designed to protect children from preventable diseases could be compromised.
Why the ACIP Matters
The ACIP is a federally chartered group of medical and public health experts that develops recommendations on the use of vaccines for the civilian population of the United States. These recommendations form the foundation for routine childhood and adult immunization schedules, helping prevent outbreaks of diseases such as measles, polio, and whooping cough.
The committee’s credibility hinges on its diverse expertise, transparent decision-making, and independence from political influence. By sidelining qualified experts (those that rely on science and are concerned about outcomes regardless of political affiliation), we risk eroding the public’s trust in vaccines at a time when vaccine hesitancy remains a significant challenge.
The Real-World Consequences
History has shown that when immunization policies lose public confidence, the consequences are severe. Outbreaks of vaccine-preventable diseases can—and do—resurge when adherence to immunization schedules declines. These outbreaks disproportionately affect the most vulnerable members of our society: infants, immunocompromised individuals, and underserved communities with limited access to healthcare.
Moreover, as Dr. Kressly points out, the integrity of immunization policies is not just a medical issue—it’s a societal one. Healthy children mean healthy schools, robust communities, and reduced strain on our healthcare system.
A Call to Action
The AAP and other health organizations are urging the public, policymakers, and the broader medical community to recognize the dangerous precedent these ACIP dismissals set. Now more than ever, it is essential to advocate for evidence-based immunization policies, protect the independence of advisory bodies, and ensure that decisions affecting public health remain rooted in science—not politics.
The health of our children—and our communities—depends on it. I know, I have three children who are adults today and were fully vaccinated. Their positive health outcomes were directly influenced by vaccines (with NO complications).
Thank you AAP for taking a stand!
Barry E. Sands
Father and President/Founder RQMIS Inc.
(Former Sr. Scientific Reviewer, FDA/CDRH)