Three vaccine studies face journal scrutiny after use in policy debates

Three scientific papers that examined possible links between vaccines and health outcomes have been removed, retracted, or placed under investigation by the journals that published them. The actions occurred over the last two months. In some cases, the reviews began years after initial concerns about the studies were raised.

Studies and their use One paper, published in 2021 in Toxicology Reports by Neil Z Miller, suggested a possible connection between vaccines and sudden infant death syndrome. A second paper, published in 2020 in Sage Open Medicine by Miller and Brian S Hooker, reported higher rates of certain conditions among vaccinated children.

The third paper, published in 2010 in the Journal of Toxicology and Environmental Health, Part A, by Carolyn M Gallagher and Melody S Goodman, examined hepatitis B vaccination timing and autism diagnoses. Robert F Kennedy Jr, the U.S. health secretary, co-authored a 2023 book with Hooker that relied on the Sage Open Medicine study.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention cited the 2010 paper when it updated its position on vaccines and autism. Aaron Siri, who has represented Kennedy, cited all three papers in a December presentation to a federal vaccine advisory committee.

Journal actions and responses Sage Open Medicine attached an expression of concern to the 2020 paper on 18 May and stated the paper is under investigation. The journal said a decision will follow review of all information and responses from the authors.

Miller said the investigation concerns allegations about data sources rather than methodology or findings. Hooker did not respond to requests for comment. Some of the authors have said they disagree with the journal actions. The Department of Health and Human Services did not respond to requests for comment.

Scientists who had previously criticized the papers said the reviews represent a positive step amid reports of rising vaccine-preventable diseases.