Summary

Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s appointment as head of the Department of Health and Human Services has reignited concerns over his vaccine-skeptic views.

Kennedy, who has previously promoted debunked claims linking vaccines to autism and criticized COVID-19 vaccines, is seen by experts as a “vaccine cynic” undermining trust in vaccine safety.

Health officials worry his leadership could worsen declining vaccination rates, already linked to rising measles and whooping cough cases.

Experts fear Kennedy’s influence may lead to unqualified leadership appointments at health agencies and deepen vaccine hesitancy among parents.