We're going to see the return of diseases we have controlled for decades

Robert F. Kennedy Jr., known for his anti-vaccine stance and conspiracy theories, is positioned to influence U.S. health policy significantly. His recent endorsement by Donald Trump suggests a potential shift in health policy direction, with Trump stating that Kennedy will help "make America healthy again." Historians and health experts express concern over the implications of Kennedy's views, particularly regarding the resurgence of preventable diseases. Dr. Howard Markel highlighted the anger surrounding pandemic responses, while Dr. Michael Osterholm warned that the rhetoric surrounding vaccines could lead to a return of diseases like polio and measles, which had been largely controlled. Kennedy has already proposed Dr. Joseph Ladapo, a fellow vaccine skeptic, for the role of Secretary of Health and Human Services, raising alarms about the future of public health initiatives. Ladapo's previous actions in Florida, including discouraging COVID-19 vaccinations and allowing unvaccinated children to attend school during a measles outbreak, further illustrate the potential risks of Kennedy's influence on health policy.

- Robert F. Kennedy Jr. is gaining traction to reshape U.S. health policy.

- His endorsement by Donald Trump signals a significant political shift.

- Experts warn of a potential resurgence of preventable diseases due to anti-vaccine rhetoric.

- Kennedy has nominated another vaccine skeptic for a key health position.

- Concerns are raised about the implications for public health initiatives.