Non Peer-reviewed “Study” Quoted to Misrepresent Vaccine Safety by Florida State Government
The quality of scientific research is greatly enhanced by the peer-review process. But when that process is ignored, poorly supported research (and conclusions) are able to slip through. And in some cases, poorly supported research may be promoted as legitimate because it supports special interests.
In Florida this month, a non peer-reviewed study was quoted by Florida State Surgeon General Dr. Joseph Ladapo, to share what many consider to be significant misinformation related to COVID-19.
The so-called study recommends that males aged 18 to 39 should not receive the mRNA COVID-19 vaccines. But the study lacks relevant data to support that opinion. An organization called ScienceBasedMedicine.org says this is the first time they’ve seen a state government “weaponize bad science to spread antivaccine disinformation as official policy.” They call it a “dangerous new escalation in antivaccine propaganda.”
It’s important to understand that the peer review process used by the scientific community is how scientists with similar backgrounds and research focuses create a process of self-regulation that is policed by professionals with relevant experience. It’s how standards are maintained and how accuracy and credibility of studies are established.
It is highly unusual for a government health professional to quote and promote the advice of a non peer-reviews and highly criticized study. But, in this case, the faulty study supports a specific political point of view.
