Panel head argues that polio and measles vaccines should be optional in the US

In a rare moment of frankness about the philosophy that guides vaccine recommendations in the Trump administration, the president of the federal panel that indicates the immunization schedule in the United States said that vaccines against polio and measles — and possibly against all diseases — should be optional, administered only after a conversation between patient and doctor.

Pediatric cardiologist Kirk Milhoan, who chairs the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP), said he has “concerns” that some children could die from measles or be paralyzed by polio if their parents choose not to vaccinate them. But he added: “I’m also sad when people die from alcohol-related illnesses,” adding: “Freedom of choice and bad health consequences.”

In the case of infectious diseases, an individual’s decision to refuse a vaccine can affect others, including babies who are too young to be immunized and immunocompromised individuals. Still, according to Milhoan, someone’s right to reject a vaccine outweighs these risks.

Opportunity with security!

“If there is no choice, informed consent is an illusion,” he said. “Without consent, it’s medical assault.”

The polio and measles vaccines are widely recognized as major public health milestones, credited with preventing disabilities and millions of deaths worldwide. The polio vaccine, in particular, has strong support from Democrats and Republicans, including President Donald Trump and GOP lawmakers, who often look back on the dramatic period before its existence.

Even so, Milhoan argues that making these vaccines optional — instead of mandatory for enrollment in public schools across the country, as is the case today — would help restore the population’s trust in public health.

Outside experts reacted harshly to the statements, stating that the suggested change in vaccination policy would lead to the unnecessary deaths of children.

“He has no idea what he’s talking about,” said Sean O’Leary, chairman of the American Academy of Pediatrics’ infectious diseases committee.

“These vaccines protect children and save lives”, reinforced O’Leary. “It is very frustrating for those of us who have dedicated our careers to improving children’s health to see children being put at risk by an ideological agenda that has no basis in science.”

A spokesperson for the US Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) declined to comment on Milhoan’s statements.