Restoring Trust in Vaccines: HHS and CDC Appoint Novel ACIP Members
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recently announced the appointment of two new members to the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP). This move, spearheaded by HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr., signals a renewed focus on transparency and scientific rigor in shaping national immunization policies.
A Shift Towards Transparency and Public Confidence
Secretary Kennedy reconstituted ACIP in June 2025, explicitly stating the goal of restoring public trust in vaccines. This follows a period of increased scrutiny and debate surrounding vaccine recommendations, particularly highlighted by the multi-state lawsuit against the CDC led by California, as reported on February 24, 2026. The lawsuit alleges that the CDC’s recent changes to the childhood vaccine schedule were unsupported by science and circumvented federal law.
Meet the New ACIP Members
The newly appointed members bring extensive clinical experience to the committee:
Sean G. Downing, M.D.
Dr. Downing is a physician specializing in both Internal Medicine and Pediatrics, with over two decades of experience in primary care. He has practiced in Florida and New Hampshire, serving both insured and medically uninsured patients. His training includes residencies at Brown University and medical school at Georgetown University.
Angelina Farella, M.D.
Dr. Farella is a pediatrician and owner of A Brighter Tomorrow Family Health and Wellness in Texas. She has dedicated over two decades to pediatric care, leading her own practice since 2004 and working in various clinical settings. Her training includes residency at the University of Texas Medical Branch (UTMB) and medical school at Ross University School of Medicine.
The Importance of Frontline Clinical Perspective
Secretary Kennedy emphasized the importance of having clinicians with real-world experience on ACIP, stating that their “frontline perspective is essential to making recommendations that are grounded in gold-standard science and worthy of public trust.” This sentiment is echoed by CDC Acting Director Jay Bhattacharya, MD, PhD, who highlighted the require for rigorous science and transparent processes in public health.
These appointments come after a tumultuous period at the CDC, including Secretary Kennedy’s request for the CDC Director, Susan Monarez, to resign and subsequent resignations of three top CDC officials, as reported in September 2025. The situation underscored the need for stable leadership and a renewed commitment to scientific integrity.
ACIP’s Role in Immunization Policy
ACIP plays a crucial role in advising the CDC Director and HHS Secretary on immunization practices. Its recommendations directly influence the vaccines recommended for the civilian population of the United States. The committee’s deliberations are intended to be based on the latest scientific evidence and to prioritize public health.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is ACIP? ACIP is the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices, a group that advises the CDC and HHS Secretary on vaccine recommendations.
Why did Secretary Kennedy reconstitute ACIP? To restore public trust in vaccines and ensure recommendations are based on rigorous science and transparent deliberation.
What qualifications do the new ACIP members have? Both Dr. Downing and Dr. Farella are experienced physicians with decades of experience in primary care and pediatrics.
What is the CDC’s role in vaccine policy? The CDC develops and implements national immunization policies based on ACIP recommendations.
What is the current status of the lawsuit against the CDC? A multi-state lawsuit, co-led by California, is ongoing, alleging that the CDC’s recent vaccine schedule changes were unsupported by science.
Did you know? Robert F. Kennedy Jr. Has a history of environmental advocacy, beginning his career as an attorney for Riverkeeper in 1985.
Pro Tip: Stay informed about vaccine recommendations by visiting the CDC website and consulting with your healthcare provider.
Want to learn more about public health initiatives and vaccine policies? Visit the HHS website for the latest updates and resources.
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