The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has been without a clear leader for months, raising concerns over its ability to provide guidance on COVID-19 vaccines. The situation worsened when Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. announced that the government would no longer endorse the vaccine for healthy children or pregnant women.
Kennedy’s announcement was made in a 58-second video without input from the CDC advisory panel, which has historically made recommendations on the nation’s vaccine schedule. The lack of a confirmed director at the CDC has been described as a “crisis waiting to happen” by epidemiologist Michael Osterholm.
The agency is currently led by Matthew Buzzelli, who has no medical experience and is surrounded by highly qualified medical professionals. An employee directory lists Buzzelli as carrying out some of the duties of director, but details about his role are scarce.
Confusion over Kennedy’s decision to bypass the CDC advisory panel on COVID-19 vaccine recommendations has led to several resignations, including that of Dr. Lakshmi Panagiotakopoulos, who worked with the committee. Critics argue that the lack of a strong CDC and visible director is hindering efforts to combat chronic diseases and prepare for public health emergencies.
Kennedy’s decision sparked controversy, particularly regarding his stance on pregnant women getting vaccinated against COVID-19. Experts note that research shows pregnant women are at higher risk of severe illness from COVID-19 infections.
As the situation continues to unfold, experts warn that a lack of clear leadership at the CDC could have serious consequences for public health in the US.
Source: https://apnews.com/article/trump-kennedy-cdc-covid19-leadership-ac86dfe10613fa8329f6a0ee4fd8ea62