I still remember how happy I felt after receiving my first polio vaccine. As a child, I often worried about polio, especially when my legs were sore from playing. After I was vaccinated I felt much relief. Now, 70 years and many vaccines later, I am a thriving Mainer who knows firsthand how vital vaccines are in preventing public health emergencies.

Recent developments, since Robert F. Kennedy Jr. was confirmed to lead the Department of Health and Human Services, are deeply concerning. The DHHS is reevaluating a bird flu vaccine contract with Moderna, and the FDA canceled a key meeting of its Vaccines and Related Biological Products Advisory Committee, which helps select flu strains for the upcoming season’s vaccine. Meanwhile, a deadly measles outbreak in Texas highlights the consequences of low vaccination rates.

Secretary Kennedy’s vaccine skepticism, combined with the suspension of vaccine advisory meetings, raises fears about federal support for vaccine safety and availability of updates of vaccines like flu and COVID. Because Sen. Collins supported RFK Jr.’s nomination and received assurances from him about the future of vaccines, we all need to ask Sen. Collins if she can also assure us that Mainers will continue to have access to effective vaccines to protect our health, just like the polio vaccine did for me so many years ago. I am waiting to hear from Sen. Collins.

Jenny Zagariello
Orrs Island