U.S. Announces Withdrawal of Support for Gavi Amid Vaccine Safety Controversy**

The United States will cease financial support for Gavi, claiming scientific neglect in vaccine safety. Gavi officials refute these claims, asserting their commitment to evidence-based practices.**

The United States, under the guidance of Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., has decided to withdraw its financial backing from Gavi, a prominent global alliance that facilitates vaccine procurement for children in underserved regions. During a video address aimed at international health leaders, Kennedy accused Gavi of failing to prioritize vaccine safety and mismanaging public health communication regarding vaccination issues.

In his address delivered at a conference in Brussels, Kennedy stated, "When vaccine safety issues have come before Gavi, Gavi has treated them not as a patient health problem, but as a public relations issue." He criticized the organization for allegedly being selective in its scientific approach to vaccination, insisting that the U.S. would not honor its previous $1.2 billion funding commitment made by the prior administration unless Gavi modified its operational protocols to better address vaccine safety concerns.

Kennedy's remarks have sparked significant backlash from Gavi officials, who firmly rejected the assertion that their vaccine procurement decisions were not based on the best available scientific evidence. They emphasized their ongoing commitment to global health initiatives and the safety of vaccines.

This controversial decision highlights the ongoing tensions surrounding vaccine safety debates and the responsibilities of international health organizations in safeguarding public health, particularly in populations that rely heavily on external support for immunization programs. As discussions continue, the implications for global vaccination efforts and public health initiatives remain to be seen.