RFK Jr. Tells New Parents To 'Do Your Own Research' On Vaccines

Despite heading the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), which is responsible for guiding Americans on health and safety matters, Robert F. Kennedy Jr. encouraged new parents on Monday to “do your own research” when it comes to vaccines.

Kennedy, a longtime critic of vaccines and a proponent of anti-vaccine conspiracy theories, made the statement during an appearance on Merit TV’s Dr. Phil Primetime on Monday evening. His comments echoed the rhetoric often used by vaccine skeptics to spread misinformation during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“We live in a democracy, and part of being a parent is doing your own research,” Kennedy said in response to a question about how he would advise new parents on vaccine safety. “You research the baby stroller, you research the foods they eat, and you should also research the medicines they take.”

Kennedy did not recommend any reputable sources for parents to consult regarding childhood vaccinations. It's important to note that scientific research overwhelmingly supports the safety of vaccines, which are crucial in preventing the spread of serious and potentially fatal diseases. Additionally, significant side effects from vaccines are exceptionally rare.

His comments come as the U.S. faces its most significant measles outbreak in over 25 years. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), an agency under Kennedy’s oversight, reported on Friday that nearly 900 measles cases have been reported across 29 states, with the majority in Texas. Nearly 100 people have been hospitalized, and three deaths have occurred, including two school-aged children in Texas who were unvaccinated.

Kennedy also downplayed the impact of COVID-19 on the average American, claiming that most people who died from the virus were already in poor health.

“These were people who were so sick that they were essentially hanging from a cliff, and COVID came along, stepped on their fingers, and dropped them off. But they were already burdened by illness,” he argued.

This article was reported by journalist Angelia.