CDC Excludes External Experts from Vaccine Policy Panels

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has reportedly decided to exclude external experts—including physicians, public health professionals, and infectious disease specialists—from participating in the working groups of its Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP). This decision, as reported by Bloomberg News, is based on concerns that these organizations could influence decision-making based on the populations they represent.

This development follows Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s recent dismissal of all 17 ACIP members, replacing them with his own appointees, some of whom are known for their vaccine-skeptical views. The CDC and the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) have not responded to requests for comment, and the report has not been independently verified by Reuters.

Established in 1964, the ACIP is a committee within the CDC that provides advice and guidance on effective control of vaccine-preventable diseases in the U.S. civilian population. The committee develops written recommendations for routine administration of vaccines to pediatric and adult populations, including vaccination schedules regarding appropriate timing, dosage, and contraindications. ACIP statements are official federal recommendations for using vaccines and immune globulins in the U.S. and are published by the CDC.

In June 2025, Secretary Kennedy dismissed all 17 members of the ACIP, citing concerns over alleged conflicts of interest and a desire to restore public trust in vaccine recommendations. He replaced them with his own appointees, some of whom are known for their vaccine-skeptical views.

The exclusion of external experts from ACIP's working groups is reportedly based on concerns that these organizations could influence decision-making based on the populations they represent.

The ousted members criticized the move, stating that it undermines scientific rigor and transparency. They warned that such actions could destabilize public health policy and erode trust in vaccines.

Senate Democrats have launched an investigation into Kennedy's dismissal of ACIP members, expressing concerns that the move could reduce public confidence in vaccines and limit access to immunizations based on pseudoscientific recommendations.

The exclusion of external experts and the appointment of vaccine skeptics to the ACIP could lead to changes in vaccine recommendations, potentially affecting vaccination rates and public health outcomes. There is concern that these actions may result in a resurgence of vaccine-preventable diseases.

Robert F. Kennedy Jr. is a long-time vaccine skeptic who has promoted vaccine misinformation. His appointment as Health Secretary has been controversial, with public health experts expressing concern over his views on vaccines and their potential impact on public health policy.

The CDC's recent decisions to exclude external experts from ACIP working groups and the dismissal of existing members have sparked significant concern among health professionals and organizations. The potential impact on vaccine policy and public trust underscores the need for transparency and evidence-based decision-making in public health.