Florida Surgeon General Faces Criticism for Vaccine-Skeptic Views
Florida’s surgeon general, Joseph Ladapo, is under fire for his controversial stance on vaccines and handling of a measles outbreak in the state. Ladapo’s unorthodox medical beliefs, including his belief that Covid shots are the work of the devil, have drawn criticism from medical experts.
Ladapo has advised parents to continue sending unvaccinated children to school during a measles outbreak, going against CDC recommendations. He has also been accused of manipulating data in a study to falsely assert risks associated with Covid vaccines, further fueling the controversy.
Medical experts warn that Ladapo’s views on vaccines could have deadly consequences and believe that his stance is part of a wider political assault by the right-wing. Ladapo, a supporter of Governor Ron DeSantis, has faced backlash for his involvement in anti-mask, vaccine, and lockdown decrees during the Covid-19 pandemic.
Democrats in Florida have criticized Ladapo’s handling of the measles outbreak and have called for his removal as surgeon general. In response to the backlash, the Florida Department of Health has published “clarifying information” defending Ladapo’s actions.
The controversy surrounding Ladapo highlights the ongoing debate over vaccines and the role of government officials in public health crises. As the measles outbreak continues to spread in Florida, the debate over Ladapo’s views and his ability to effectively lead the state’s response to the crisis is only likely to intensify.
