Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. could soon determine whether millions of seniors can receive free vaccines against the flu, pneumonia and other deadly illnesses this fall.

Kennedy recently dismissed all 17 members of the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP), the expert panel whose recommendations influence which vaccines are covered by Medicare, Medicaid and private insurers. Now, his new handpicked appointees are reconsidering which vaccines to recommend.

If ACIP weakens or withdraws vaccine guidance, seniors could face dangerous gaps in coverage. That's why it's critically important that the new members seek out seniors' perspectives before making any vaccine policy changes.

ACIP traditionally reviews vaccines approved by the Food and Drug Admi

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