A federal advisory panel under Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has voted to roll back the recommendation of flu vaccines containing thimerosal—a mercury-based preservative once widely used in multidose vials.
The panel advised that children, pregnant women, and adults should now receive only single-dose flu vaccines that are thimerosal-free, citing the availability of safer alternatives. While the decision awaits final approval by the CDC, it marks a significant victory for Kennedy’s long-standing efforts to promote cleaner vaccine formulations and greater parental choice.
Thimerosal has been the subject of fierce controversy for decades, with critics pointing to potential neurodevelopmental risks, particularly in children. While most mainstream medical organizations dismiss these claims as unfounded, Kennedy and his allies have consistently called for precaution, arguing that public health policy must err on the side of safety when alternatives exist.
“Vaccines should be as safe as possible, especially for our most vulnerable populations,” said one panel member during the Atlanta meeting. “With thimerosal-free options readily available, there’s simply no reason not to make the switch.”
The vote was not without pushback. Pediatrician Cody Meissner voted against the recommendation, expressing concern that limiting vaccine choices could reduce access in some settings. Still, the committee emphasized that thimerosal-free options are already the norm for most Americans.
Kennedy’s broader vaccine reform effort also includes a reevaluation of the MMRV combination vaccine and the introduction of antibody-based RSV protections for infants—steps aimed at recalibrating vaccine policy to reflect emerging science and evolving public trust.
Critics may call the panel “stacked,” but for many, RFK Jr.’s willingness to challenge the status quo is exactly why his leadership resonates.