U.S. Health Secretary Continues Push for Vaccine Safety Reforms

Kennedy reiterated the administration's commitment to changing U.S. vaccine policy and increasing scrutiny of vaccine safety.

U.S. Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. is continuing to push for greater vaccine safety oversight, with the Trump administration maintaining pressure on Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, over vaccines containing thimerosal. Under an agreement reached earlier this year, Gavi committed to accelerating its transition toward thimerosal-free alternatives, including newer meningococcal, hexavalent, pneumococcal and hepatitis B vaccines.

The administration has described the move as part of its broader effort to strengthen vaccine safety, accountability and innovation. Speaking at a Children's Health Defense conference on September 17, Kennedy reiterated the administration's commitment to changing U.S. vaccine policy and increasing scrutiny of vaccine safety.

The development follows the resolution of a funding dispute between Washington and Gavi, with the United States agreeing to release $600 million in previously withheld funding after the alliance outlined its transition plans.