Trump’s former FDA head criticizes RFK Jr. on measles, infant formula
Former FDA commissioner Scott Gottlieb recently criticized the current administration’s handling of a deadly measles outbreak and its plan to improve the infant formula supply. Speaking at STAT’s Breakthrough Summit East, Gottlieb expressed concerns about Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s approach to these critical health issues.
Gottlieb specifically called out Kennedy’s response to the measles outbreak, noting that it lacked a strong emphasis on vaccination and instead focused on parental choice and the use of vitamin A as a treatment. While vitamin A can improve survival rates in measles patients, Gottlieb cautioned against promoting it as a cure and highlighted the importance of vaccination in preventing the disease.
Tom Frieden, former CDC director, also criticized Kennedy’s stance on vaccines and warned that the administration’s cuts to federal health programs could exacerbate the measles outbreak.
In addition to the measles crisis, Gottlieb questioned the effectiveness of the administration’s new plan, dubbed “Operation Stork Speed,” to enhance the American infant formula supply. The plan aims to improve labeling, test for heavy metals, allow more imported formula, and conduct health research. However, Gottlieb raised doubts about whether mimicking European standards would benefit the U.S. market, given the higher regulatory standards in the country.
Furthermore, concerns were raised about the FDA food center’s limited resources, which could hinder the implementation of the infant formula plan. With potential staff cuts looming, Gottlieb likened the sluggish progress of the initiative to the slow speed of a stork, in contrast to the swift pace of Operation Warp Speed for Covid-19 vaccines.
Looking ahead, President Trump’s nominee for FDA chief, Marty Makary, is set for a Senate confirmation vote soon. Meanwhile, drugmakers are grappling with the administration’s tariff policies, prompting calls for more strategic measures to incentivize domestic manufacturing.
Gottlieb also touched on Kennedy’s controversial suggestion to allow bird flu to spread freely through flocks, emphasizing the importance of prevention to curb rising egg prices. In an op-ed published in STAT, he underscored the need for proactive measures to protect public health and the economy.
In conclusion, Gottlieb’s remarks underscore the urgent need for a comprehensive and science-based approach to public health crises, emphasizing the critical role of vaccination, regulatory standards, and strategic planning in safeguarding the nation’s well-being.
