RFK Jr. questions another publisher on expression of concern for a vaccine paper

U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has questioned a publisher regarding an expression of concern placed on a 2020 vaccination paper. Published in Sage Open Medicine, the article examined health outcomes in vaccinated versus unvaccinated children. Authored by vaccine critics Brian Hooker and Neil Z. Miller, the journal placed an expression of concern on the paper on May 18, stating it would remain in place until the investigation concluded.

Kennedy sent a letter to Sage Open Medicine's managing editor, Prajakta Mane, requesting an explanation for the decision, as well as the full internal analysis, external scientific feedback, and clarification of the reason for the concern. He gave a deadline of August 15, emphasizing the importance of transparency for rebuilding public trust in public health and medical science.

Sage Open Medicine's spokesperson stated they have no information to share while the investigation is ongoing. Hooker, the chief scientific officer for Children's Health Defense, a nonprofit founded by Kennedy, and Miller coauthored a 2023 book discussing the Sage paper. The paper was one of three presented at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices meeting last December, which are now under scrutiny.

A complaint to the journal outlined concerns around conflict of interest and data collection. Hooker and Miller have not responded to requests for comment.