FDA’s Makary evades Covid questions, calls CDC panel a ‘kangaroo court’

Amidst the ongoing debate surrounding Covid-19 vaccines, Food and Drug Administration Commissioner Marty Makary recently appeared on CBS News’ “Face the Nation” to provide clarity on the federal government’s stance. However, Makary offered little concrete information and instead advised Americans to consult with their healthcare providers.

During the interview, Makary highlighted the conflicting data regarding the efficacy of Covid vaccines in healthy children and pregnant individuals. He emphasized that the decision to get vaccinated should be a personal choice made in consultation with a doctor. Makary also criticized the CDC’s vaccine advisory panel, referring to it as a “kangaroo court” that routinely approves vaccines without thorough evaluation.

In recent weeks, the Trump administration has implemented measures to restrict access to Covid vaccines. The FDA announced plans to limit vaccine use to individuals aged 65 and older or those with underlying health conditions. Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. controversially rescinded a CDC recommendation advocating for the vaccination of healthy children and pregnant individuals. These decisions, which bypassed standard regulatory procedures, could impact insurance coverage for the vaccines.

Public health experts expressed concern over the withdrawal of vaccine recommendations for pregnant individuals, citing data showing a higher risk of severe Covid infection in infants born to unvaccinated mothers. Makary and vaccine regulator Vinay Prasad underscored the importance of vaccinating pregnant individuals in a commentary outlining the FDA’s new vaccine guidelines.

When questioned about the inconsistency in listing pregnancy as a risk factor while retracting vaccine recommendations for pregnant individuals, Makary emphasized the need for additional data from randomized controlled trials. He urged individuals to rely on their doctors’ expertise in making informed decisions about vaccination.

Makary also addressed the issue of vaccinating infants as young as six months, noting a lack of sufficient data on this population. He advised parents to seek guidance from healthcare providers regarding the vaccination of young children.

Regarding the timing of the policy changes preceding the CDC advisory panel’s review, Makary defended the administration’s decisions by referencing the panel’s inclination towards a risk-stratified approach. He and Kennedy have expressed skepticism towards the ACIP’s evaluation process in the past.

The ACIP plays a crucial role in recommending the use of FDA-approved vaccines, often adopting a more cautious approach than the FDA’s licensing permits. The committee’s considerations include potential risks associated with vaccines, as evidenced by their deliberations on RSV and HPV vaccines.

In conclusion, Makary’s interview shed light on the complexities surrounding Covid vaccine recommendations and the importance of individualized decision-making in consultation with healthcare professionals. As the debate continues, it is essential for the public to stay informed and seek guidance from trusted sources.