HHS Orders Removal of Thimerosal from Flu Vaccines

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, led by Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., has adopted a policy to remove thimerosal, a mercury-based preservative, from all flu vaccines distributed in the United States. This move follows a June recommendation from the CDC's Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices, which was recently reconstituted by Kennedy. Thimerosal is currently found in about 4-5% of flu vaccine doses, primarily in multi-dose vials, and its removal is seen as a victory for the anti-vaccine movement, despite scientific consensus on its safety. Vaccine manufacturers have indicated they can supply thimerosal-free vaccines without disrupting distribution. Critics argue the decision is driven by political and activist pressure rather than scientific evidence and warn it could undermine public trust in vaccines. The policy has limited practical effect, as most U.S. flu vaccines are already thimerosal-free, but it fulfills a longstanding promise by Kennedy and his supporters.