Robert F. Kennedy Jr. rolls out Lyme disease initiative amid backlash over antidepressant comments

U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. announced a multi‑million‑dollar pilot program, run by the CDC and HHS, to strengthen the federal response to Lyme disease and other tick‑borne illnesses. The plan targets a 25 % reduction in Lyme cases by 2035, expands patient access to experienced providers, and includes a partnership with the International Lyme and Associated Diseases Society. It also addresses alpha‑gal syndrome, which affects an estimated 500,000 Americans.

At a recent mental‑health summit, Kennedy urged studies on a possible link between certain antidepressants and violent behavior, suggesting psychiatric overprescribing should be curbed, especially among children. His comments sparked criticism from leading psychiatrists and professional groups, who called the claims unfounded and warned they could stigmatize patients and distract from broader issues such as firearm access.

The announcements highlight a dual focus of the HHS under Kennedy, combining expanded disease‑control efforts with controversial proposals on psychiatric medication usage.