The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is preparing for staff cuts and has become the focus of scrutiny over withholding public health information, particularly in relation to the avian influenza outbreak.
With avian flu spreading rapidly among animals, including birds, cattle, and cats, experts warn that the virus could mutate into a highly infectious and deadly form. Georges C Benjamin, MD, Executive Director of the American Public Health Association, expresses concern that bird flu may become more lethal and easily spreadable, potentially leading to a worse outbreak than COVID-19.
The CDC plays a critical role in surveillance and reporting on disease threats, but its ability to respond effectively is being threatened by staff cuts. Reports indicate that the agency has begun preparing for layoffs, with some staff members identified as “mission critical” while others are deemed non-essential.
Furthermore, an investigation into avian influenza transmission revealed that the CDC had previously reported a case of human-to-human transmission, but this information was subsequently deleted from the agency’s publication. This move has sparked fears among public health experts, including Benjamin, who believes that the Trump Administration’s actions will diminish the CDC’s capacity to respond to emergencies.
Benjamin warns that the country is not prepared for a public health emergency and that the current situation could be “worse than COVID-19.” The expert emphasizes the importance of continued surveillance and transparency in addressing the ongoing avian influenza outbreak.
Source: https://www.contagionlive.com/view/federal-government-changes-may-influence-avian-influenza-surveillance-and-disease-prevention