Silver Spring, Maryland – The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is facing turmoil as a top vaccine official, Peter Marks, has resigned from his position amidst reports of pressure and conflict with agency leadership. Marks, who played a significant role in the development of Covid-19 vaccines during the Trump administration, tendered his resignation to Health and Human Services (HHS) officials after allegedly being given an ultimatum to resign or be fired.
In a letter obtained by multiple media outlets, Marks expressed concerns about the lack of truth and transparency in the agency under the leadership of Robert F. Kennedy Jr., the new HHS Secretary. The resignation comes at a critical time as the US continues to deal with the challenges of the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic and outbreaks of other vaccine-preventable diseases, such as measles.
Marks, who had been serving as the director of the Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research within the FDA since 2016, highlighted his worries about the growing measles outbreak in Texas, where two deaths and over 500 reported cases have been recorded, with the majority in Texas. His departure raises questions about the future of vaccine policy and regulation in the US, especially as Kennedy has announced plans to restructure HHS, which oversees the FDA and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
Kennedy, known for his skepticism towards vaccines and spreading misinformation, has faced backlash for his controversial views on public health. The clash between Marks and Kennedy reflects a larger debate within the scientific and medical communities about the role of evidence-based decision-making and the importance of upholding public trust in vaccines and public health measures. Marks’ departure signals a potential shift in the leadership and direction of FDA’s vaccine-related activities, as the agency navigates through challenging times of public health crises and vaccine hesitancy.