Vaccine skeptic to become Louisiana surgeon general | News

Gov. Jeff Landry has appointed Evelyn Griffin, a doctor who has worked on maternal mortality and voiced skepticism about vaccines, to be Louisiana’s next surgeon general.

“Her clinical experience, her leadership in advancing maternal health, and her dedication to strengthening the doctor-patient relationship make her the exact right choice for this role,” Gov. Jeff Landry said in a release Monday announcing Griffin’s appointment. “With Dr. Griffin stepping in, I’m confident Louisiana is in good hands and headed toward a healthier, stronger future.”

Griffin is a member of the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices, or ACIP, the top vaccine advisory panel to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. She was appointed to the panel by U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr., who has campaigned against vaccines.

Last week, ACIP voted to end a three-decade-old recommendation that all infants get the Hepatitis B vaccine and issue weaker guidance for some newborns. Griffin supported that decision.

In a news release announcing her appointment, Landry’s office said Griffin’s “work included a focus on reducing maternal morbidity and mortality.” Louisiana’s rates of such deaths is among the highest in the country.

Griffin replaces Ralph Abraham, who recently left the statewide post to take a top position at the Center for Disease Control and Prevention. He drew scrutiny for his decision to end max vaccination campaigns in the state and for casting doubt over COVID-19 vaccines.