Trump officials consider ophthalmologist Hemmati for top vaccine post, reports say

WASHINGTON, April 13 (Reuters) - The Trump administration is considering appointing Houman Hemmati, an ophthalmologist and a frequent Fox News guest, to lead the FDA's Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research, according to media reports.

The news was first reported on Monday by Endpoints News. The Washington Post also reported that Hemmati was being considered, citing three people familiar with the matter.

"No decision has been made on the selection of the next CBER director. We continue to vet highly qualified candidates," said Department of Health and Human Services spokesperson Andrew Nixon.

Vinay Prasad, the center's controversial director, is leaving the agency at the end of the month. FDA Commissioner Marty Makary said a replacement would be named before his departure.

Prasad, an oncologist, was an outspoken critic of U.S. drug ⁠and vaccine policies, particularly around COVID-19 mandates, before joining the agency. His tenure included a series of high‑profile disputes ​over product reviews for vaccines, including Moderna's MRNA.O COVID shot, gene therapies and other rare disease drugs.