Statement on the June meeting of the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices

This week’s meeting of the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices, or ACIP, was politicized, chaotic and not transparent. That kind of process is harmful to the American people. 

Agenda items were added last minute, limiting the ability of members to review data. Disclosures about potential conflicts of interest of the newly appointed ACIP members have not been made public.   

Re-examining the childhood vaccine schedule and the use of thimerosal are both politically motivated actions that are not based on science. Raising questions without adequate data casts doubt on vaccination, which can further drive down confidence in vaccines. More than any other medications, vaccines are extensively and constantly reviewed and evaluated. Vaccination saves lives. 

The American people deserve an objective and transparent review process based on scientific evidence, not political agendas with no basis in facts. 

— Tina Tan, MD, FIDSA, FPIDS, FAAP — President, IDSA  

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About IDSA  
The Infectious Diseases Society of America is a global community of 13,000 clinicians, scientists and public health experts working together to solve humanity’s smallest and greatest challenges, from tiny microbes to global outbreaks. Rooted in science, committed to health equity and driven by curiosity, our compassionate and knowledgeable members safeguard the health of individuals, our communities and the world by advancing the treatment and prevention of infectious diseases. Learn more at idsociety.org