New York State Committed to Science-Based Vaccine Policy

safe, effective, and accessible science-backed influenza vaccines

Some positive news coming from NYS DOH.

If you recall, Indivisible Ulster County asked me to do a series of videos on the impact of Trump’s policies on me, my business, and my patients.

Around vaccines, I proposed this solution: NYS DOH needs to stand up and join with medical groups and other state DOH to continue science-based vaccine evidence in light of the Trump administration’s attack on reality.

In This Article:

NY DoH Reaffirms Commitment to Science-based Immunizations

All NY practitioners received an email from DOH that stated their intention to do exactly that (emphasis mine): 

“Following the June 25–26 meeting of the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP), the New York State Department of Health and the New York City Health Department reaffirm our commitment to science-based immunization policy and recommendations.

While ACIP has not taken actions that significantly change current vaccine recommendations, the meeting raised concerns that future decision-making processes could be compromised, and that more consequential vaccine recommendations that do not follow the science may be forthcoming. We are closely monitoring developments and will address any future changes as appropriate to ensure evidence-based immunization policy remains the standard in New York.

Thimerosol-containing Influenza Vaccines

Of note, ACIP voted against the use of thimerosal-containing influenza vaccines, an outdated issue that has little real-world impact. The thimerosal presentation did not follow the typical Evidence-to-Recommendation framework. Only 4% of the 2024–25 influenza vaccine supply in the United States contains thimerosal, and thimerosal-free options are widely available. Numerous studies have demonstrated no evidence of harm from thimerosal in vaccines.

Additional information about thimerosal for you and your patients is available from the New York State Department of Health and the Vaccine Education Center at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia.

Safety and Effectiveness of Vaccines

Updated data presented at the meeting continue to show strong evidence supporting the safety and effectiveness of COVID-19, Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV), and influenza immunizations, including the new long-acting RSV monoclonal antibody (clesrovimab). New York State and New York City guidance for providers regarding COVID-19, RSV, and influenza immunizations will follow later this summer.

As always, we remain committed to working with national partners and other jurisdictions to ensure safe, effective, and accessible vaccines for all New Yorkers. We recognize how challenging it can be to counter vaccine hesitancy, and your role in providing trusted, evidence-based information has never been more important. Thank you for your continued work to protect New Yorkers.

Female healthcare practitioner inserts a syringe into a small vial containing influenza vaccination medicine.

Learn More: CDC Overview of Thimerosal

Does Thimerosal Cause Autism?

With no sense of irony whatsoever, the story about thimerosal broke as RFK Jr was leaving a tanning salon.  

I spoke about thimerosal in an old rant on my website, and I think it’s worth a read. 


Neal Smoller, PharmD

Neal is the founder and holistic pharmacist of Village Apothecary in Woodstock, NY. Established in 2010, the independent pharmacy offers a number of modern services like prescription syncingvaccines, and home delivery, while maintaining an emphasis on natural products and wellness. 

Faced with a deeply flawed supplement industry that puts company sales over customer safety and results, Neal established Woodstock Vitamins to meet his high standards for ingredient quality, dosage, ethical sourcing, and bioavailability.