On Monday, the White House published an executive order directing federal and state officials to make ill-advised changes to federal immunization policy and childhood vaccine recommendations. No new scientific evidence supports these actions, which makes this announcement both disheartening and dangerous. AAP News has an excellent summary.

At a time when the U.S. is experiencing the worst measles surge in more than three decades, children are heading back to school, and cold and flu season is approaching, families, caregivers, and pediatricians need steady, reliable, evidence-based guidance. This news coming from the White House is frustrating for every pediatrician who has been working tirelessly to combat similar messaging that has sown fear and confusion over the past year.

But I also want to share how proud I am of the AAP for responding swiftly, forcefully, and effectively. As President, I have the privilege of working alongside Academy leaders and staff who were ready for this moment and acted immediately to push back against this executive order in the following ways:

• AAP proactively shared resources and Fact Checked articles to provide journalists with valuable context and data.

• I issued a statement unequivocally opposing the executive order and federal leaders’ continued efforts to falsely link vaccines with autism.

• I participated in several live interviews and a virtual press conference with Committee on Infectious Diseases member Aaron Milstone, MD, MHS, FAAP to reassure parents and stress the importance of on-time immunization, including CNN, ABC, and Substack Live with Katie Couric.

• Our social media content across AAP channels continues to break records and reach new audiences, including through collaboration with pediatrician influencers and professional organizations such as the AMA.

• We engaged our chapters with tailored messaging guides so pediatricians had the resources to communicate directly with families in their communities.

These are just some examples of the decisive action AAP took in the immediate aftermath of this breaking news, and we will have more to share in the days ahead. We are continuing to work with partners from the clinic to the courthouse to share resources, speak out, and push back against harmful policies that undermine our ability to protect children’s health.

In fact, one such effort is taking place right now in Texas. Just last week, Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton, who is running for U.S. Senate, announced an investigation into AAP’s vaccine policy development. This local media piece has more, including a quote from AAP CEO Mark Del Monte, JD.

During challenging times like these, I want to especially thank you for all you do in your practices and communities. I encourage you to continue doing what you do best: partner with the families you know and care for, answer their questions, and work together to break through the noise to keep children healthy. Your role is more vital than it has ever been. Families across this country rely on these efforts and I share your pride in our determination to meet this moment.

Sincerely,

Andrew D. Racine, MD, PhD, FAAP

President