UPDATE: An anti-vaccine lawyer, Aaron Siri, sparked immediate backlash after speaking at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) vaccine advisory panel meeting on September 29, 2023. His presence marks a controversial shift for the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP), historically a trusted source for vaccine guidelines.
Siri, who has close ties to Robert F. Kennedy Jr., a notorious anti-vaccine activist, presented alarming claims about childhood vaccines, specifically targeting shots for hepatitis B, pneumococcal disease, and a combination vaccine for diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis. He argued that these vaccines cause serious adverse events and even suggested a link to autism—a debunked claim that contradicts decades of research.
During his lengthy presentation, Siri stated, “If you’re going to say vaccines don’t cause autism, have the data to say it.” This statement is particularly concerning, as extensive studies, including a large Danish study from July 2023, have found no connection between vaccines and autism.
Public health experts swiftly condemned Siri’s remarks. Art Caplan, head of medical ethics at NYU Langone Medical Center, declared that Siri’s involvement signifies a troubling ideological shift within ACIP, stating, “This is a science issue, and he’s the wrong guy, with the wrong conflicts, with the wrong style, with the wrong information.”
Siri’s claims extended to criticizing vaccines for failing to prevent transmission, while experts emphasize that the primary goal is to prevent severe disease and death. Dr. Cody Meissner, a pediatrician and former ACIP member, expressed disappointment, calling Siri’s presentation a “terrible distortion of all the facts.”
The meeting culminated in a contentious vote to roll back a longstanding recommendation for all newborns to receive the hepatitis B vaccine at birth. Instead, the advisory panel suggested that mothers who test negative for the virus consult healthcare providers regarding their baby’s vaccination.
Kennedy has previously dismissed ACIP members over alleged conflicts of interest, replacing them with individuals largely skeptical of vaccines. Siri disclosed ongoing lawsuits against the Department of Health and Human Services, including cases related to COVID-19 vaccine injuries and mandates.
The fallout from this meeting raises critical questions about the future of vaccine recommendations in the U.S. Experts warn that the committee’s credibility is at risk, with implications for public health decisions.
NEXT: As public health officials grapple with the implications of this meeting, attention will turn to how the CDC and ACIP will address these developments. The public is urged to remain informed and rely on scientifically backed information regarding vaccines.
Stay tuned for more updates as this story develops.
