Thirty Days in the Life of MAHA

In the last month, RFKs Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) took several actions that live up to the Make America Healthy Again slogan. Issues addressed include removing mercury compounds in vaccines, halting financial incentives for vaccination administration, a wind-down on funding for mRNA research, and other important issues. We urge you to TAKE ACTION and let your federal representatives know that you support these initiatives!   

Removing mercury from US vaccines

“Exposure to mercury – even small amounts – may cause serious health problems, and is a threat to the development of the child in utero and early in life. Mercury may have toxic effects on the nervous, digestive and immune systems, and on lungs, kidneys, skin and eyes. Mercury is considered by WHO as one of the top ten chemicals of major public health concern.”  World Health Organization

Thimerosal is a mercury-based compound historically used in vaccines as a vaccine preservative. Today it is used only in multi-dose flu vaccine vials. On July 23, DHHS adopted the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) recommendation to remove Thimerosal from US flu vaccines. ACIP voted for this change by 5-1 in June. Back in 1999 the US Public Health Service, the American Academy of Pediatrics, and vaccine makers had agreed that possible risk from mercury justified removing it from vaccines. With this new policy DHHS is completing the process of getting mercury out of these products. Notably, Europe got rid of mercury vaccine additives several years ago. RFK said. “Injecting any amount of mercury into children when safe, mercury-free alternatives exist defies common sense and public health responsibility. Today, we put safety first.”

No more financial pressure on hospitals to vaccinate staff

In an August 1 press release, DHHS states that it and the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services are acting to repeal a federal policy that gave monetary awards to hospitals for reporting on the vaccination rate of staff. The agency also notes that this incentive policy amounted to coercion. “Medical decisions should be made based on one thing: the wellbeing of the person – never on a financial bonus or a government mandate.” Said RFK. “Doctors deserve the freedom to use their training, follow the science, and speak the truth-without fear of punishment.” CMA Administrator Dr. Mehmet Oz offered that, “Doctors and other providers should have the same autonomy to choose what’s right for their own individual health care needs as the patients for whom they care. Today’s announcement helps put that power back in their hands.”  

SNAP benefits can’t be used for “junk food”

In an August 4 press release, DHHS celebrated the fact that more states are limiting the ability to buy junk food using Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits. New SNAP waivers for West Virginia, Florida, Colorado, Louisiana, Oklahoma, and Texas change the definition of “food” and stop the subsidizing of candy and soda pop—products that underly some of our chronic disease burden. RFK noted that, “These waivers help put real food back at the center of the program and empower states to lead the charge in protecting public health. I thank these governors who have stepped up to request waivers, and I encourage others to follow their lead. This is how we Make America Healthy Again.” SNAP waivers for Nebraska, Iowa, Indiana, Arkansas, Idaho, and Utah were also signed this year.

  DHHS begins “coordinated wind-down:” of mRNA vaccine development

In an August 5 release, DHHS announced a wind-down of mRNA vaccine development under the Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority (BARDA).  “We reviewed the science, listened to the experts, and acted,” RFK. “BARDA is terminating 22 mRNA vaccine development investments because the data show these vaccines fail to protect effectively against upper respiratory infections like COVID and flu. We’re shifting that funding toward safer, broader vaccine platforms that remain effective even as viruses mutate.”

Task Force on Safer Childhood Vaccines

On August 14 DHHS announced the revival of the Task Force on Safer Childhood Vaccines. “By reinstating this Task Force, we are reaffirming our commitment to rigorous science, continuous improvement, and the trust of American families,” said National Institutes of Health (NIH) Director Jay Bhattacharya. “NIH is proud to lead this effort to advance vaccine safety and support innovation that protects children without compromise.” This Task Force was disbanded in 1998, and ironically it was a lawsuit from Children’s Health Defense that triggered this Task Force revival. Goals include the development of vaccines with fewer adverse reactions. 

 Let your federal representatives know that you support DHHS’ actions!