Many Americans today question the science behind childhood vaccines, despite decades of evidence confirming their safety. Recently, trial lawyers have taken advantage of this uncertainty by filing lawsuits against vaccine manufacturers, even when the claims are baseless. These lawsuits rarely succeed, yet they contribute to further skepticism and encourage more litigation.
The human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine serves as an example. It effectively reduces the risk of cervical cancer by up to 90 percent. Some countries, including Australia, are nearing the elimination of HPV-related cancers due to widespread vaccination efforts. Despite this success, American lawyers continue to challenge its safety in court, which undermines public trust.
For many, the details of these lawsuits remain unknown. Headlines alone often lead the public to believe there might be some credibility to the claims, increasing doubt at a time of widespread misinformation about vaccines. Misleading guidance from health authorities and conflicting statements from the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) worsen the situation, creating confusion and skepticism.
Currently, four in ten parents express uncertainty about common false vaccine claims, such as the unfounded link between the measles, mumps, and rubella vaccine and autism. This confusion leads to declining vaccination rates, which have resulted in outbreaks of diseases once considered eradicated. For instance, in 2025, over 2,200 measles cases emerged in the United States, with severe consequences including hospitalizations and deaths.
In response to such litigation challenges, Congress established the Vaccine Injury Compensation Program (VICP) in the 1980s. This program provides a structured and fair way for individuals to claim compensation if they believe a vaccine caused them harm. It prevents manufacturers from exiting the market due to legal threats, thus averting vaccine shortages.
The VICP effectively addresses vaccine injuries, offering compensation without the need for costly court battles where success is unlikely. However, some lawyers still attempt to bypass this program, aggressively pursuing civil court cases despite an unsuccessful track record. The lure of significant damages drives these legal actions which weaken public health and expose many young individuals to avoidable diseases.
Reaffirming the protections established by Congress is crucial. Avoiding frivolous lawsuits is essential to maintaining the integrity of the public health system. Policymakers, the judiciary, and the public should recognize and reject these tactics to safeguard lives and uphold trust in vaccines.
Dr. Jerome Adams, former U.S. Surgeon General from 2017 to 2021, shares his perspective in this article.
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