Novavax Delay & RFK Jr.’s Vaccine Misinformation in 2025
In April 2025, two major stories have captured attention in the ongoing conversation around COVID-19: the delayed FDA approval of the updated Novavax COVID-19 vaccine and Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s (RFK Jr.) repeated falsehoods calling COVID-19 vaccines “the deadliest vaccine ever made.” Both highlight the ongoing challenges in balancing science, policy, and public trust in a post-pandemic world.
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Novavax: A Delayed but Crucial Tool
Novavax’s COVID-19 vaccine, which uses a protein subunit platform rather than mRNA technology, has been a valuable option for those hesitant to take mRNA vaccines or those with allergic reactions to certain vaccine components. However, the updated Novavax booster for the 2024–2025 season has yet to receive full FDA authorization as of April 2025.
According to reporting by CBS News and other sources, the delay stems from manufacturing and regulatory review setbacks rather than efficacy or safety issues. The Novavax vaccine has shown promising protection against circulating variants, including the XEC Omicron offshoot, and its more traditional formulation appeals to certain populations.
Despite these factors, the lag in approval has left some Americans—especially those relying on Novavax as their primary vaccine—without an updated booster.
Public Health Experts Urge Patience
Dr. Peter Marks of the FDA’s Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research noted that the agency is working diligently to complete its review. “We understand the importance of having multiple vaccine platforms available, especially for those who cannot or prefer not to take mRNA vaccines,” Marks said in a recent briefing.
Meanwhile, CDC officials recommend that individuals who are eligible for an mRNA booster—such as those from Pfizer-BioNTech or Moderna—get vaccinated without delay, rather than wait for Novavax. Delaying vaccination, particularly among older adults or immunocompromised individuals, increases the risk of severe illness.
RFK Jr. and the Spread of Vaccine Misinformation
At the same time, independent presidential candidate RFK Jr. has continued to make unfounded and widely debunked claims about COVID-19 vaccines. In recent statements, he called the vaccines “the deadliest vaccine ever made,” a claim that public health experts, fact-checkers, and scientific data unanimously reject.
The Facts Disprove the Claim
Multiple peer-reviewed studies and CDC surveillance data show that the COVID-19 vaccines have dramatically reduced hospitalizations and deaths since their introduction in late 2020. Side effects remain rare and typically mild, with severe reactions occurring at a rate of less than 0.01%.
A 2023 CDC report estimated that the vaccines prevented more than 20 million hospitalizations and over 1 million deaths in the U.S. alone. These benefits far outweigh the known risks, which are carefully monitored through robust vaccine safety systems such as VAERS (Vaccine Adverse Event Reporting System).
Why RFK Jr.’s Claims Are Dangerous
Public health experts warn that spreading misinformation about vaccines can lead to lower uptake and increased susceptibility to preventable diseases. RFK Jr.’s rhetoric not only undermines trust in science but also jeopardizes efforts to protect vulnerable populations.
Dr. Ashish Jha, former White House COVID-19 Response Coordinator, stated, “Misleading statements about vaccine safety are not only false—they are harmful. They discourage people from protecting themselves and others.”
The Role of Rapid Testing in Continued Prevention
As discussions around vaccines persist, testing remains a critical tool for managing the spread of SARS-CoV-2. With variants like XEC continuing to circulate, frequent and accessible testing helps detect infections early, especially before attending gatherings, traveling, or visiting high-risk individuals.
Benefits of Rapid Home Tests
Rapid home tests remain a practical solution for day-to-day virus monitoring. Get market-leading rapid COVID tests here.
- Speed: Get results in 15 minutes
- Privacy: Test at home without visiting a clinic
- Convenience: Ideal for school, work, or travel
Public health officials encourage individuals to keep rapid tests on hand, particularly during seasonal surges.
What You Should Do
- Get Vaccinated: If eligible for an updated mRNA vaccine, don’t wait for Novavax approval. Protection is most effective when up to date.
- Rely on Verified Information: Trust sources like the CDC, FDA, WHO, and peer-reviewed scientific journals.
- Use Rapid Tests Responsibly: Especially when symptomatic or exposed. Find trusted home testing kits here.
- Speak Up Against Misinformation: Share credible data in your networks to counteract false claims.
- Final Thoughts
April 2025 finds the world in a nuanced phase of COVID-19 management. While much progress has been made, setbacks like the Novavax delay and the persistent spread of misinformation by figures like RFK Jr. serve as reminders of the work that remains.
Vaccines—including Novavax once authorized—are safe, effective tools in preventing severe COVID-19 illness. Testing remains essential. And combating misinformation is everyone’s responsibility in safeguarding public health and scientific integrity.
Rapid tests remain a vital tool in the medicine cabinet for ongoing infection cycles of COVID-19. Be sure to stay stocked up with market-leading ASSURE-100 rapid tests this season.
Keywords: Novavax COVID vaccine, RFK Jr vaccine claims, COVID-19, SARS-CoV-2, vaccine misinformation, rapid testing, rapid home tests, public health 2025