Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

NPR Faces Backlash Over Misleading Vaccine Safety Claims

7/8/2025

28 7

Summary

Story summary

On July 6, 2025, NPR faced backlash for misrepresenting thimerosal's mercury content and health risks. Critics highlighted the article's failure to acknowledge its ongoing use in flu vaccines for vulnerable groups, raising concerns about potential neurotoxic effects of ethylmercury. This misstep threatens to erode public confidence in vaccine safety.

1 of 1

Story summary

On July 6, 2025, NPR faced backlash for misrepresenting thimerosal's mercury content and health risks. Critics highlighted the article's failure to acknowledge its ongoing use in flu vaccines for vulnerable groups, raising concerns about potential neurotoxic effects of ethylmercury. This misstep threatens to erode public confidence in vaccine safety.