Louisiana’s surgeon general, who made headlines in February for ending the state’s vaccination campaigns, has been appointed as the CDC’s deputy director. Online, the appointment sparked concern about the official’s past vaccine skepticism, with some expressing worry that he may sow doubt about vaccine safety or advance policies that conflict with established science. Vaccine opponents welcomed the appointment, suggesting he would promote “natural immunity” over vaccination and highlight alleged vaccine risk.
Recommendation
High-ranking health officials may influence public opinion on issues like vaccine safety, especially when their positions conflict with established vaccine science. Health communicators may continue to highlight decades of evidence showing that routine vaccines are safe and effective. Messaging may emphasize the importance of herd immunity in preventing the spread of disease and keeping communities safe.
Fact-checking sources: National Academies, Stanford Medicine
