Robert F Kennedy Jr

Robert F. Kennedy Jr. is the current US Health Secretary. He is newsworthy due to his controversial policy changes and stances on public health issues, particularly regarding vaccines. Recent developments include the US withdrawal from the World Health Organization (WHO), a decision jointly announced with Secretary of State Marco Rubio. Kennedy Jr.'s Dietary Guidelines for Americans (DGA) are under scrutiny for prioritizing animal-based proteins over plant-based options. A US-funded study on hepatitis B vaccines in Africa, overseen by Kennedy Jr., was cancelled. He also appointed vaccine skeptics to the CDC's vaccine advisory panel. Furthermore, cuts to mental health and substance use programs, initiated by Kennedy Jr., were partially reversed. His actions are significant because they represent a departure from established public health consensus and have the potential to impact national and global health outcomes.