Whoa, major shake-up at the U.S. CDC! Less than four weeks after stepping in as director, Susan Monarez has been fired. 😲
The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) broke the news on X (formerly Twitter): "Susan Monarez is no longer director of the CDC. We thank her for her dedicated service to the American people." No extra details were shared.
Here's the quick background:
- Monarez took charge on July 31, becoming the agency's shortest-serving director.
- A few hours after the firing announcement, her legal team claimed she hadn't resigned or been fired.
- They accused HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. of "weaponizing public health for political gain" and warned that removing experienced officials puts "millions of American lives at risk."
Turns out, vaccine policy was a big bone of contention. Earlier this year, RFK Jr. pulled federal COVID-19 shot recommendations for pregnant women and healthy kids, then replaced the CDC's vaccine advisory panel with handpicked advisers, including anti-vax activists. 🤔
Rumors are that HHS and White House officials pressed Monarez on whether she would roll back existing vaccine approvals. When she refused to align with those changes, she was let go.
To add to the drama, several senior CDC officials also resigned on Wednesday, reportedly unhappy with the new direction on vaccines and concerned about politicizing public health.
What's next? The CDC will need a new leader to navigate ongoing COVID-19 concerns, future pandemic prep, and the delicate balance between science and politics. Stay tuned!
For all you young pros keeping an eye on global health and policy shifts, this story is a reminder of how fast things can change in the world of public health. 🌏
Reference(s):
U.S. disease control chief fired after less than a month in position
cgtn.com
