Heads up: the US federal government shutdown, now in its second week since October 1, is starting to rattle two major services – public health and air travel. Here’s the lowdown on what’s happening and why it matters (even if you’re watching from across the globe). 🌏
CDC cuts staff on infectious diseases 😷
On Saturday, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) confirmed it had to lay off around 130 core members of its infectious disease team. That’s a big shake-up at a time when measles cases in the US are at their highest since 1992, flu deaths are surging, and whooping cough is near record peaks for the second year in a row.
Air traffic rattled by staffing gaps ✈️
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is also feeling the pinch. China Media Group reports that control centers in New York, Atlanta and Albuquerque have all faced short-staffed shifts:
- NYC center: Issues around 2:00 p.m. local time.
- Atlanta: Shortages from 4:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
- Albuquerque: Low personnel from 6:00 p.m. to 1:00 a.m.
Some flights are rerouted to ease delays, while others may slow down to stay safe. Trouble is, air traffic controllers and TSA officers remain on the job without pay until the shutdown ends.
Trump orders pay for troops 🪖
Despite the freeze on federal funding, President Donald Trump took to Truth Social to say he’s directed Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth to “use all available funds” to pay military personnel by October 15.
Wider federal layoffs spark outcry 💼
The Trump administration has rolled out another wave of layoffs across major departments, including Homeland Security, Health and Human Services, and Treasury. The American Federation of Government Employees, which represents about 800,000 workers, slammed the move as “disgraceful,” accusing leaders of using employees as “political pawns.”
Political gridlock keeps shutdown alive 🤝
Congress remains at an impasse after the Senate failed to pass a new funding bill. Democrats wanted to add healthcare benefits, while Republicans pushed for a “clean” short-term measure first. Until they strike a deal, essential services keep running without pay, and many others stay home on unpaid leave — a scenario last seen nearly seven years ago.
With the clock ticking and no end in sight, millions of Americans are stuck in limbo. Stay tuned as we keep an eye on this unfolding drama. 🔍
Reference(s):
Health, flight services hit as U.S. government shutdown drags on
cgtn.com
