Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s HHS is backtracking on claims that the CDC's Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices was disbanded. Robert Malone, a former mRNA researcher turned vaccine critic, initially claimed Thursday that the entire ACIP panel would be replaced. Malone later retracted his statement after HHS officials told him the decision hadn't been finalized.

Malone, who has embraced anti-vaccine views and promoted conspiracy theories about vaccines causing 'a form of AIDS,' said he was informed of the committee's dissolution during meetings. An HHS spokesperson told Ars Technica that any claims about future actions are 'baseless speculation' unless officially announced. The Wall Street Journal obtained a text message where Malone complained about 'HHS incompetence' and being thrown 'under the bus' over his statements.

Defend Public Health, an advocacy group, emphasized that HHS must follow federal regulations regardless of Kennedy's plans. The group suggested reconstituting the existing committee would be the simplest legal path forward, though starting from scratch remains an option if proper procedures are followed. The controversy highlights ongoing tensions between vaccine policy and political appointments within the Department of Health and Human Services.