The Senate’s recent confirmation of Robert F. Kennedy Jr. to head the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has sparked significant concern among public health professionals. Kennedy, who is known for his contentious stance on vaccines, has raised alarms among experts who worry that his leadership could hinder public health efforts and diminish trust in scientific research.

Dr. Paul Offit, the director of the Vaccine Education Center at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia and a veteran of vaccine advisory committees for both the CDC and FDA, expressed strong disappointment over Kennedy’s confirmation. He stated, “It’s a disappointing day for the health of children in America and public health as a whole when someone who dismisses established science and promotes conspiracy theories is appointed to such a critical health agency.” Offit also criticized the senators who voted in favor of Kennedy, suggesting they should be ashamed for neglecting the well-being of the American populace.

At age 71, Kennedy was among the more polarizing nominees put forth by President Donald Trump. He has a track record of spreading medical misinformation, including the widely debunked claim that vaccines cause autism, despite a wealth of contrary evidence. His confirmation hearings were marked by tension, with senators probing him on his anti-vaccine beliefs, inconsistent views on abortion, and past endorsements of various conspiracy theories, including those regarding bioweapons like Lyme Disease and COVID-19. At times, he seemed uncertain about fundamental responsibilities related to HHS, yet he was confirmed by a narrow margin of 52 to 48, with only Senator Mitch McConnell of Kentucky opposing him.

Concerns regarding Kennedy’s nomination surfaced as early as November when Trump named him as the candidate for HHS. As the head of this department, he will oversee essential health organizations such as the CDC and the FDA.

Experts are particularly worried about the potential effects Kennedy could have on vaccination policies. During his confirmation hearing, he attempted to clarify his stance by asserting that he is “not anti-vaccine” but rather “pro-safety,” claiming that the Trump Administration would not remove any vaccines from the market. Nevertheless, many experts remain skeptical, fearing he might appoint individuals to key health positions who could undermine or obstruct vaccine approvals, ultimately eroding trust in this vital public health resource.

Dr. Rob Davidson, an emergency physician in Michigan and executive director of the Committee to Protect Health Care, expressed deep concerns about Kennedy’s approach to emerging health threats, such as bird flu (H5N1). Davidson pointed out Kennedy’s earlier suggestions to halt infectious disease research as particularly troubling.

“His influence on public health is a serious threat,” Davidson remarked. “It’s disconcerting to think that someone who has sown doubt about vaccines is now in charge of the agency responsible for public health communications.”

“The lives of many could be jeopardized with him in this role,” he added.

Read More: RFK Jr. Denies Anti-Vaccine Stance During Confirmation Hearing. Here’s What He’s Said.

Moreover, there are worries about how Kennedy might approach abortion-related issues. Although he previously supported a woman’s right to choose, he has recently shifted towards an anti-abortion viewpoint, agreeing with Trump that “every abortion is a tragedy” and suggesting that states should decide on abortion policies.

During the confirmation hearings, Kennedy’s comments concerning mifepristone—a medication approved by the FDA for abortion for over twenty years—were vague. He mentioned that Trump had asked him to “study the safety of mifepristone” but did not commit to a definitive stance, raising concerns that HHS under his leadership may impose restrictions on access to this medication.

Read More: The Influence of Trump’s Nominees on Abortion Policies

On a slightly more positive note, Kennedy has garnered some support for his views on food and nutrition. His initiative to “Make America Healthy Again” proposes banning several food additives already banned in other countries and aims to reform regulations, research priorities, and subsidies to combat the rise of ultra-processed foods.

Dr. Dariush Mozaffarian, a cardiologist and director of the Food Is Medicine Institute at Tufts University, sees promise in Kennedy’s focus on nutrition-related health issues, which he views as a pressing national crisis. However, Mozaffarian expressed disappointment with Kennedy’s evasive responses regarding his vaccine skepticism during the hearings, stating, “He missed a crucial opportunity to clarify his position and emphasize the importance of addressing the real challenges in our flawed food system.”

Despite Kennedy’s proposals regarding nutrition, many health experts remain doubtful about his potential for meaningful action in this area. “His polarizing views overshadow any possible positive contributions he may make,” Davidson commented. “The dangers posed by his leadership far outweigh any benefits related to his nutrition stance.”

Experts are concerned that Kennedy’s leadership could exacerbate public skepticism towards science and health initiatives, a sentiment already prevalent in today’s political climate.

Katelyn Jetelina, an epidemiologist and founder of the newsletter Your Local Epidemiologist, remarked, “This moment signifies a critical juncture in our society, reflecting the increasing distrust in institutions and the complex information landscape we navigate. My primary concern is the rhetoric that breeds doubt and confusion, challenges we must confront moving forward.”