Senator Ron Johnson has recently endorsed a book by Dr. Pierre Kory, a physician who has lost his medical certification due to promoting unapproved treatments. The book, titled "The War on Chlorine Dioxide: The Medicine that Could End Medicine," claims that chlorine dioxide, a chemical primarily used for disinfection, can treat a range of diseases, including autism and COVID-19. Kory alleges that public health agencies and the pharmaceutical industry are suppressing the benefits of chlorine dioxide for profit.

Chlorine dioxide is used in various industries, including food processing and water treatment, but safety experts warn that concentrations above 0.8 milligrams per liter can be harmful, particularly to vulnerable populations such as infants. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued warnings against the ingestion of chlorine dioxide mixtures, which have been linked to serious health risks.

Experts, including Joe Schwarcz from McGill University, have dismissed Kory's claims as unfounded and dangerous. Johnson's endorsement has drawn significant criticism, particularly from the autism community, where experts emphasize the importance of evidence-based treatments. Helen Tager-Flusberg, a director at Boston University, criticized Johnson for prioritizing unverified claims over established medical knowledge.

The promotion of chlorine dioxide as a treatment has historical roots, gaining traction over the past two decades as part of a narrative surrounding so-called "miracle mineral solutions." Legal actions have been taken against individuals promoting such treatments, highlighting ongoing public health risks associated with misinformation.

As the book's release approaches, concerns persist regarding the potential harm to individuals seeking alternative treatments for autism and other conditions, reflecting broader issues of public health, the role of misinformation, and the implications of corporate and state interests in medical discourse.