Fact Check: "Kennedy claims diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis vaccine increases death rates in girls."
What We Know
Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has made claims regarding the diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis (DTP) vaccine, suggesting it may increase mortality rates among girls. A meta-analysis conducted by Aaby et al. (2016) found that in studies involving BCG-vaccinated children, DTP vaccination was associated with a mortality rate that was 2.54 times higher in girls compared to unvaccinated girls, while no increase was observed in boys (Aaby et al.). This analysis also indicated a significant increase in the female-to-male mortality ratio following DTP vaccination (Aaby et al.).
However, the World Health Organization (WHO) and other health authorities have conducted reviews that did not find convincing evidence to support the claim that DTP vaccination increases mortality in females (Aaby et al.). The WHO's conclusions were based on a broader set of studies, which included considerations of methodological biases that may have influenced the results (Aaby et al.).
Analysis
Kennedy's claims are partially supported by some observational studies that suggest a correlation between DTP vaccination and increased mortality in girls. The meta-analysis by Aaby et al. presents data indicating a significant increase in mortality rates among vaccinated girls, which could lend credence to Kennedy's assertions (Aaby et al.). However, it is essential to note that these findings are contested by the WHO, which has stated that the evidence does not convincingly support the idea that DTP vaccination increases mortality in females (Aaby et al.).
The reliability of the sources must also be considered. The meta-analysis by Aaby et al. is published in a peer-reviewed journal, which adds credibility to its findings. However, the WHO's reviews are based on a more extensive set of data and include a broader consensus from the global health community, which typically adheres to rigorous standards of evidence evaluation (Aaby et al.).
Moreover, Kennedy's position as a long-time vaccine skeptic raises questions about potential bias in his interpretation of the data. His statements have been criticized by health professionals who argue that they could undermine public trust in vaccination programs, which have been shown to save millions of lives (PBS).
Conclusion
The claim that the DTP vaccine increases death rates in girls is Partially True. While there is some evidence from specific studies suggesting a higher mortality rate among vaccinated girls, this finding is not universally accepted and is contradicted by broader reviews from authoritative health organizations like the WHO. The complexity of vaccine effects and the potential for methodological biases in studies necessitate a cautious interpretation of the data. Thus, while there are indications that warrant further investigation, the overall consensus in the scientific community does not support the claim as a definitive conclusion.
Sources
- Is diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis (DTP) associated with increased female mortality? A meta-analysis testing the hypotheses of sex-differential non-specific effects of DTP vaccine
- Evidence Concerning Pertussis Vaccines and Deaths
- U.S. is pulling funding from Gavi, global group that has paid for more than a billion kids to get vaccinated
- US pulls funding from global vaccines group, saying it has 'ignored science'
