FDA Vaccine Chief Vinay Prasad Reinstated After Resignation

Dr. Vinay Prasad is returning to his role as the FDA vaccine chief less than two weeks after resigning under intense political and industry pressure. The Department of Health and Human Services confirmed his reinstatement on Monday, signaling a swift reversal in the agency’s leadership decision.

Prasad had stepped down following criticism from conservative allies of President Donald Trump, including activist Laura Loomer, who labeled him a “progressive leftist saboteur.” His departure came after years of challenging the FDA’s approval standards for medicines.

Controversy Over Gene Therapy Decision

The dispute escalated when Prasad ordered a temporary halt to shipments of a gene therapy for Duchenne’s muscular dystrophy after two patient deaths. Families of affected children and libertarian advocates opposed the pause, arguing it limited access to a potentially life-saving treatment.

The suspension drew criticism from The Wall Street Journal editorial board, former Republican Sen. Rick Santorum, and other political figures. The FDA quickly reversed the decision, allowing the therapy’s use to continue.

Political and Public Pressure

Loomer’s public campaign against Prasad highlighted his past praise for independent Sen. Bernie Sanders. Despite this, he retained strong support from FDA Commissioner Marty Makary and Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., both of whom advocate for tighter scrutiny of COVID-19 vaccines.

Under Prasad’s leadership, the FDA restricted the approval of two new COVID-19 vaccines from Novavax and Moderna. He also implemented stricter testing requirements for future vaccine authorizations, a move that aligned with the agency’s push for more rigorous safety standards.

SOURCE: AP News