Joseph Ladapo

Dr. Scott Rivkees contradicts much of the evidence given by Florida’s health department in recommending that healthy children need not be vaccinated for COVID-19.

The state news release said “current evidence does not support the use of puberty blockers, hormone treatments or surgical procedures for children and adolescents.”

The way Dr. Joseph Ladapo was hired appeared to violate the spirit of UF hiring regulations and procedures, a report released by the committee said.

Dr. Lisa Gwynn of the UM Miller School of Medicine tells Florida Roundup that many pediatricians "feel as though this is part of the political narrative that is being pushed forward by Gov. DeSantis."

Some of the claims state health officials make in their guidance don't tell the full story about COVID vaccines, according to a doctor with the Florida chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics. He says all eligible kids should get shots.

Lee Health says it will end daily reporting of the number of COVID patients it is treating for the first time since the start of the delta variant surge last summer,

Children with underlying health conditions should consider taking the vaccine and parents "are encouraged to discuss the risks and benefits" with their doctor.

Surgeon General Dr. Joseph Ladapo made the announcement at a roundtable organized by Gov. Ron DeSantis that featured a group of doctors who criticized coronavirus mandates.

Gov. Ron DeSantis’ appointment of Surgeon General Joseph Ladapo was confirmed by the Senate, despite objections from Democrats who criticized his handling of the pandemic.

Only a few states have a surgeon general. Florida has had one since 2007, but critics say the job serving as the top advocate for wellness and disease prevention has changed because of politics.