Contributor: RFK Jr.'s focus on viral nonsense is putting children's lives at risk - Los Angeles Times

Los Angeles Times

by Robert B. Shpiner

February 22, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s tenure as HHS Secretary has sparked significant controversy, particularly due to his promotion of vaccine skepticism and actions that have weakened confidence in vaccines. His policies, such as reducing recommended childhood immunizations and replacing expert advisory committees with vaccine skeptics, have contributed to a surge in measles cases, including over 900 confirmed cases in 2026 alone. This decline in public health standards has led to decreased trust in organizations like the CDC and has put children's lives at risk. Kennedy's actions include firing members of the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices, which had long guided national vaccine policy, and replacing them with individuals who share his skepticism toward vaccines. He also cut funding for critical research areas, such as mRNA technology, which played a pivotal role in developing life-saving vaccines. These decisions have not only hindered scientific progress but have also created barriers to essential health services, particularly for those without regular access to primary care. Despite Kennedy's claims during confirmation hearings that he supported the childhood vaccination schedule, his actions have directly contradicted these statements. This betrayal of trust has eroded confidence in public health institutions among both the general population and within the medical community. The consequences are alarming, as seen in rising outbreaks of preventable diseases like measles, which were nearly eradicated in the U.S. decades ago. The situation underscores a broader issue: the politicization of science and healthcare. Kennedy's focus on promoting unproven theories about vaccines has led to widespread misinformation and a dangerous erosion of trust in established medical practices. His actions have not only put children's health at risk but also threaten the progress made in public health over the past century. This issue matters deeply to readers interested in news, as it highlights the intersection of politics, science, and public health. The stakes are high: the decisions made by Kennedy and other policymakers will continue to impact the health and safety of millions of Americans, particularly children who rely on vaccines for protection against preventable diseases.

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Originally published on Los Angeles Times on 2/22/2026