RFK Jr. Undergoes Parasitic Lamprey Bite in Health Official’s Controversial Demonstration
RFK Jr’s Bizarre Lamprey Stunt in Idaho Sparks Questions
Robert F. Kennedy Jr., the controversial head of the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), stirred confusion and criticism after allowing parasitic lampreys to bite his arms during a visit to Idaho’s Nez Perce salmon hatchery on Thursday. The jawless fish, known for their sucker-like mouths lined with sharp teeth, latched onto RFK Jr.’s skin, leaving red marks he humorously described as “hickeys” in a post on X (formerly Twitter).
Lamprey Encounter Raises Eyebrows
Lampreys, often called “sea vampires,” are parasitic fish that attach to other marine creatures to feed on blood. Found in Pacific Northwest waters, they’re occasionally consumed by Indigenous tribes as a food source when salmon is scarce. RFK Jr.’s visit aimed to highlight the importance of traditional foods for tribal health, but his decision to let multiple 2-foot-long lampreys bite him—on his arms, wrists, and even another person nearby—drew bewilderment.
RFK Jr. let lampreys latch onto his arms, promoting tribal food traditions. (Image: Daily Mail)
Experts caution that lamprey bites can cause infections, injuries, or blood loss due to their tooth-lined suction. The creatures hold no therapeutic value, leaving many to question the purpose of the spectacle. While some supporters praised his “wild” approach online, others expressed concern over the reckless behavior from a public health official.
A History of Parasites and Bizarre Antics
This isn’t RFK Jr.’s first strange encounter with wildlife. In 2012, he revealed that a parasitic worm had burrowed into his brain years earlier, causing memory loss and brain fog. Initially misdiagnosed with a tumor, doctors later identified the invader—likely contracted during environmental work in South Asia—before it died, sparing him surgery.
Lampreys use their circular, tooth-covered mouths to feed on blood. (Image: Daily Mail)
The health secretary also faced scrutiny in 2024 after admitting to dumping a dead bear cub in New York’s Central Park in 2014. RFK Jr. claimed he found the bear roadkill and planned to eat it, but drunken friends convinced him to stage a mock accident in the park. The bizarre prank left authorities puzzled when the cub’s body was discovered, though he avoided legal consequences due to expired statutes of limitations. Critics called the incident evidence of poor judgment for a federal official.
Mixed Reactions Amid Political Career
RFK Jr.’s lamprey photos drew polarized responses online. Supporters applauded his unconventional style: “Bro you wild. I like it though, keep it up,” one user wrote. Idaho locals also welcomed him, praising the state’s beauty. Yet others questioned his fitness for office, citing his history of erratic behavior.
RFK Jr. promoted tribal health initiatives during his Idaho tour. (Image: Daily Mail)
Despite the backlash, RFK Jr. has leaned into his maverick image, often using social media to share controversial views. His lamprey stunt follows recent pledges to combat “sinister” government programs, amplifying his conspiracy-adjacent reputation.
Medical Experts Urge Caution
Health professionals warn against emulating RFK Jr.’s actions. Lampreys pose infection risks, and their bites—though non-venomous—can damage tissue. “There’s zero medical benefit to this,” said one biologist. “It’s purely a stunt.”
As the HHS secretary navigates criticism, his unusual choices continue to overshadow policy discussions. Whether campaigning for tribal nutrition or recounting brain parasites, RFK Jr. remains a magnet for headlines—and head-scratching.
DailyMail.com has contacted HHS for comment.
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