Context:

Dr. Susan Monarez, nominated by President Trump as the new CDC director, testified before the Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions Committee, defending recent changes in the CDC's Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP). These changes, initiated by HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., involved dismissing 17 ACIP members and appointing new ones, some of whom have criticized vaccine safety. Monarez, emphasizing the critical role of the ACIP, assured senators of her commitment to maintaining the committee's integrity and expertise, particularly in mRNA technology, which is vital for advancing vaccine development. The Senate hearing also touched on public trust issues in vaccine safety and Monarez's stance on maintaining certain CDC programs amidst previous layoffs. Additionally, Monarez responded to questions about the safety of fluoridated water, an issue Kennedy has criticized, affirming her belief in its safety and importance for oral health.

Dive Deeper:

• Dr. Susan Monarez testified before the Senate committee amid concerns about eroding public trust in vaccine safety due to recent changes in the CDC's Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP), initiated by HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.

• Kennedy dismissed 17 ACIP members, citing conflicts of interest, and appointed eight new members, some of whom have criticized vaccine safety, raising concerns among lawmakers about the committee's integrity and expertise.

• Monarez emphasized the importance of having highly trained scientists with expertise in mRNA technology on the ACIP panel, as this technology is crucial for developing vaccines and potential therapies for various diseases.

• The Senate hearing also addressed Monarez's non-involvement in recent CDC layoffs and program eliminations under the Trump administration, with Monarez highlighting her focus on reinforcing existing plans rather than making personnel decisions.

• Questions about fluoride in public water supplies revealed Kennedy's critical stance on the issue, while Monarez maintained a neutral position, affirming her belief in the safety and oral health benefits of fluoridation.