Story perspectives

Vaccine Panel Chair Advocates Choice, Sparks Controversy

1/25/2026

23 3

Summary

Story summary

Dr. Kirk Milhoan, chair of a U.S. vaccine advisory panel, says vaccine decisions should prioritize individual choice over mandates.
In a podcast, he questioned broad vaccine recommendations for diseases such as polio, arguing medical advances warrant reconsideration.
The American Medical Association called the stance a dangerous step backwards.
Experts including Dr. Peter Hotez dismissed the committee's opinions as discredited and warned of risks to children's health.

1 of 1

Story summary

Dr. Kirk Milhoan, chair of a U.S. vaccine advisory panel, says vaccine decisions should prioritize individual choice over mandates.
In a podcast, he questioned broad vaccine recommendations for diseases such as polio, arguing medical advances warrant reconsideration.
The American Medical Association called the stance a dangerous step backwards.
Experts including Dr. Peter Hotez dismissed the committee's opinions as discredited and warned of risks to children's health.