Americans are expressing a strong desire for increased accountability from pharmaceutical companies regarding vaccine safety, according to a recent poll. Conducted by the Center for Excellence in Polling and commissioned by the Foundation for Government Accountability, the survey indicates that 88% of respondents believe pharmaceutical companies "should be held financially responsible" if their vaccines or other products cause harm.
The poll also reveals that 88% of participants agree that clinical trials for new COVID-19 boosters should demonstrate a "clear health benefit" before receiving U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval. This sentiment is shared almost equally among Republicans and Democrats.
Furthermore, the survey shows that 50% of respondents support allowing parents to opt their children out of school-required vaccines without penalty. Support for this measure is highest among Republicans at 68%, while 43% of independents and 37% of Democrats agree.
These findings align with a previous John Zogby Strategies poll conducted on behalf of Children's Health Defense (CHD) in November 2024, which found that 57% believe vaccine-injured individuals should be able to sue manufacturers currently shielded from liability by existing laws.
The CHD-Zogby poll also indicated opposition to vaccine mandates, with 72% opposing mandates for experimental vaccines like COVID-19 shots issued under emergency use authorization.
Recent reports suggest changes in public health recommendations, such as the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services' plan to stop recommending COVID-19 vaccines for certain groups. Additionally, all new vaccines will require testing against a placebo before approval.
Mary Holland, CEO of CHD, said that these results confirm "broad-based, bipartisan support" for the Make America Healthy Again (MAHA) movement. The MAHA policies aim to enhance safety testing of vaccines and improve transparency in public health agencies.
According to Scott C. Tips from the National Health Federation, the poll reflects growing public distrust toward health agencies post-pandemic and a demand for reform. Valerie Borek from Stand for Health Freedom emphasizes that Congress should heed this widespread support for MAHA policies.
Overall, the survey highlights significant public backing for measures promoting food safety and transparency in government-funded health studies.
Information from this article can be found here.
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