ATLANTA (AP) — Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s new vaccine advisory committee kicked off a two-day session on Thursday morning focused on shots against COVID-19, hepatitis B and chickenpox.

In his opening remarks, committee Chairman Martin Kulldorff defended the group against critics who say it leans toward anti-vaccine views.

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“The members of this ACIP Committee are committed to reassuring the public and restoring public confidence by removing unnecessary risks and harms whenever possible. That is a pro-vaccine agenda," Kulldorff said.

He later added: “We welcome scientific critique of any of our votes, as there are gray areas due to incomplete scientific knowledge.”

Votes are expected in the afternoon on hepatitis B and on a combined shot against measl

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