RFK Jr. Links His Vocal Issues to Flu Shots

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Source: MedPage Today

Original: https://www.medpagetoday.com/washington-watch/washington-watch/119516...

Published: Wed, 21 Jan 2026 12:45:04 -0500

Robert F. Kennedy Jr., US Secretary of Health, believes that his spasmodic dysphonia may be caused by the flu shot[1]. Kennedy stated that he received an annual flu shot until the mid-1990s, then stopped[1]. Spasmodic dysphonia is a neurological disorder in which the vocal cords involuntarily tighten and spasm, causing a hoarse voice[1]. According to Kennedy's own explanation, his vocal cords are very strong, but neurological signals constantly tell them to tighten, making his voice hoarse[1]. A common treatment for this disorder is injections of botulinum toxin (Botox) directly into the affected muscles of the larynx, which help relieve spasms and improve voice quality[1]. These injections are usually needed regularly to maintain the desired effect[1].