RFK Jr. spreads unfounded conspiracy theory that Lyme and RSV were engineered
science.feedback.org
RFK Jr. claims Lyme disease and RSV were engineered — but published science points to natural origins for both pathogens.
Conspiracy TheoryNaturalistic FallacyMisinformation DiffusionOccam's Razor
Theory Briefing
- RFK Jr. publicly aired claims that Lyme disease and RSV were deliberately engineered, not naturally occurring.
- Science reviewers found no published studies supporting an engineered origin for either pathogen.
- Available data on both Lyme and RSV is consistent with natural emergence, according to the fact-check.
- The claim follows a recurring pattern where high-profile figures attach bioweapon narratives to well-studied diseases.