The postponement occurred because the Department of Health and Human Services did not authorize the meeting, preventing the public comment portal from opening.

For weeks, the CDC sought final authorization from HHS to hold the meeting, facing delays due to a communications freeze on federal health agencies following Trump's inauguration.

Public health groups have condemned the postponement, citing urgent infectious disease threats, including the ongoing severe flu season.

Concerns have been raised about Kennedy's potential influence on the panel, given his history of anti-vaccine activism and criticism of vaccination policies.

The Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) meeting, the first since Robert F. Kennedy Jr. took office as Health and Human Services Secretary, has been postponed.

Critics worry that Kennedy's stance could undermine public trust in vaccines, especially during a severe flu season.

More than 50 medical experts and organizations have urged Kennedy and the CDC to preserve the panel's meeting, emphasizing the need for timely vaccine discussions.

The postponed meeting was intended to address several key vaccine issues, including new vaccines for chikungunya and meningitis.

The committee, composed of various health professionals, expressed disappointment over the postponement, highlighting its long-standing role in guiding vaccine use.

Originally scheduled for February 26 to 28, 2025, the meeting was delayed to allow for public comment, although no new date has been announced.

Kennedy, during his confirmation, criticized ACIP, stating that the committee is under review as per an executive order issued by President Trump.

Experts assert that vaccines are safe and effective, and ACIP's recommendations, while not binding, are generally followed by agency directors.