What is RFK doing to vaccines for children in America?

What is RFK doing to vaccines for children in America?

Author: BBC News March 27, 2026 Duration: 28:34

A federal judge has temporarily blocked the Trump administration from making big changes to vaccines for children in the United States. It is a blow to Health Secretary Robert F Kennedy - RFK Jr - a longtime vaccine sceptic who was given free rein by Donald Trump to “go wild with health”.

Since taking office a year ago, Kennedy has sought to slash the number of recommended shots for children from 17 to 11. The American Academy of Paediatrics and other large medical groups have sued, saying Kennedy's changes violate federal law and are based on ideology instead of science.

Marianna Spring and Justin Webb unpack what this means for Donald Trump’s big plan to - as he puts it - "Make America Healthy Again” with Dr Debra Houry, the former director of the CDC (Centre of Disease Control and Prevention) who resigned in August 2025.

Presenter: Justin Webb, Radio 4 presenter and Marianna Spring, social media investigations correspondent Producer: Emma Close and Alix Pickles Technical producer: Mike Regaard Editor: Sam Bonham

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Trying to make sense of American politics can feel like navigating a maze. Americast, from BBC News, cuts through the noise with a perspective that’s both grounded and far-reaching. You’ll hear from seasoned correspondents like the BBC’s North America editor, Sarah Smith, and presenter Justin Webb, who bring decades of experience to the conversation. This isn’t just a recap of headlines; it’s about understanding the forces shaping the United States, from the granular details observed on the ground to the wider historical and social currents at play. The team delves into everything from election campaigns and policy debates to the complex role of disinformation and social media, offering clarity on the stories that define the nation week to week. Relying on the BBC’s global network of journalists, this podcast provides analysis that connects local events to their international significance. For anyone looking to move beyond the soundbites and gain a more nuanced view of American government and society, tuning into this weekly discussion offers a valuable and authoritative resource.
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