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The AOA, alongside four other physician organizations, issued a joint statement expressing alarm over the HHS decision to halt most federal investment in mRNA vaccine research. The letter stated that cutting this funding undermines scientific progress and weakens the nation’s ability to respond to future pandemics and public health crises. They stressed that sustained research is vital to developing next-generation tools to protect Americans from infectious disease.
The statement also reaffirmed that vaccines remain safe, effective and life-saving, thanks to decades of rigorous science and monitoring. The organizations pledged continued advocacy for strong federal investment in public health research and programs that prevent debilitating and deadly diseases.
The AOA joined seven other leading medical organizations in voicing strong opposition to the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) decision to bar liaison organizations from its vaccine review process.
In a joint statement, the groups expressed alarm at being labeled “biased” and excluded from reviewing scientific data and informing vaccine recommendations. They emphasized that physicians provide essential real-world clinical expertise, ensuring that vaccine guidance is both evidence-based and practical for patient care.
For decades, liaison organizations have reviewed safety, efficacy and effectiveness data to help shape trusted vaccine policies. Removing their participation, the statement warned, undermines transparency, weakens public trust and jeopardizes the integrity of the nation’s vaccine program. The letter urged the Administration to reverse this decision to safeguard confidence in vaccine recommendations.