Trump dispels rumors he will seek to ban polio vaccine
President-elect Donald Trump has put to rest rumors that his administration would seek to ban the polio vaccine, stating firmly that “that’s not going to happen.” This clarification comes amidst concerns over the stance of his nominee for Secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services, Robert F. Kennedy Jr., who has previously questioned the efficacy of vaccines.
The New York Times recently reported that a lawyer assisting Kennedy had petitioned to pause the distribution of 13 vaccines, including the polio vaccine, while working for a nonprofit organization. This raised concerns that Kennedy might attempt to ban the polio vaccine, prompting criticism from Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell, who labeled such efforts as “dangerous.”
During a press conference at Trump’s Mar-A-Lago resort, the President-elect addressed these concerns, stating that his administration has no plans to ban the polio vaccine. He emphasized that he wants Kennedy to provide a report on his views regarding the vaccine but assured the public that the vaccine will not be discontinued.
Trump highlighted the importance of the polio vaccine by recounting the experiences of friends who had been affected by the virus but were able to overcome it with the vaccine. He praised Dr. Jonas Salk, the inventor of the polio vaccine, for his contributions to public health.
While dispelling rumors about the polio vaccine, Trump expressed concern about the increasing rates of autism in the country, a topic that Kennedy has previously linked to vaccines. Trump vowed to investigate the reasons behind the surge in autism rates and find potential solutions.
In response to inquiries about the future of the polio vaccine, a spokesperson for the Trump transition team stated that Kennedy believes the vaccine should remain available to the public and undergo thorough scientific study.
Overall, Trump’s remarks have reassured the public about the continuity of the polio vaccine program while also acknowledging the need to address concerns about autism rates. His administration appears committed to ensuring the safety and efficacy of vaccines while promoting public health.
