The American Association of Immunologists responds to Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. advancing in his nomination as HHS Secretary

The American Association of Immunologists (AAI), one of the world’s largest organizations of immunologists and scientists in related disciplines, has issued a statement reaffirming the global impact of vaccines and the power of the research that underpins their safety and efficacy.

On Tuesday (February 4, 2025) morning, the Senate Finance Committee advanced the nomination of Kennedy to a full senate vote. In AAI’s statement, it says it is ready to work with Kennedy should he be confirmed by the Senate. AAI makes it clear that the health and well-being of millions of Americans depends on the decisions made the Secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS).

Dr. Stephen C. Jameson, President of AAI, said:

“The head of HHS plays a vital role in making decisions that directly affect the well-being of our friends, family and neighbors. Vaccines are one of the most important advances in the history of medicine. Thanks to vaccines, once-feared diseases such as polio and measles are now rarer threats. It’s important for the public to know that decades of scientific research underpin the safety and efficacy of vaccines.”

As a member organization for all those working in the field of immunology, AAI is committed to advocating for immunology research and ensuring that the public can access accurate and evidence-based information about vaccines and the science behind them.

The full statement from The American Association of Immunologists:

Earlier today, the Senate Finance Committee advanced the nomination of Robert F. Kennedy Jr., to become the next Secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). Kennedy will now face a full Senate vote to confirm his nomination.

The health and well-being of millions of Americans depend on the decisions made by the HHS Secretary. Whoever takes on this role must ensure that accurate, evidence-based information is used in decision-making and communicated to the public. This is particularly relevant to the role of vaccines and immunization in public health.

The scientific evidence is clear: vaccines are one of the greatest achievements of modern medicine, responsible for saving millions of lives and preventing countless illnesses worldwide. Vaccines truly are a scientific achievement of epic proportions – a safe and effective way to activate the natural ability of our immune systems to fight diseases that would otherwise kill or harm millions. The fact that the success of vaccines is rooted in decades of immunology research should inspire all of us to see the benefits of continued support for biomedical research programs, including infectious disease research.

AAI will continue to support HHS in its mission to protect and improve the health of all Americans, and stands ready to work with Mr. Kennedy should he be confirmed by the Senate. We welcome opportunities to collaborate in advancing policies that promote immunization, combat misinformation, support world-leading research, and uphold the integrity of the scientific process.

About The American Association of Immunologists

The American Association of Immunologists (AAI) is one of the world’s largest organizations of immunologists and scientists in related disciplines. Our mission is to improve global health and well-being by advancing immunology and elevating public understanding of the immune system. AAI members are responsible for some of the most significant biomedical discoveries of the past century, including the development of life-saving cancer immunotherapies, antibody therapies, transplant technologies, and vaccines. We support scientists across the field of immunology through knowledge dissemination, community building, advocacy, and public outreach.