MP’s ‘dangerous’ ideas could scuttle vaccine confidence, doctors warn

Government backbencher Craig Kelly's 'crackpot' posts about coronavirus treatments could undermine public health initiatives, the AMA says
Craig Kelly
Mr Craig Kelly.

Senior AMA figures say the promotion of numerous “crackpot” COVID-19 treatments by government backbencher Craig Kelly threatens public confidence in the upcoming vaccination program.

Mr Kelly, Federal member for the Sydney seat of Hughes, has repeatedly promoted unproven coronavirus treatments via Facebook.

They include the use of hydroxychloroquine, ivermectin and Betadine as treatments for COVID-19. 

But on Tuesday, Mr Kelly posted comments about a German study – which has not been subject to peer review – reporting negative side effects in children and adolescents who wear masks.