The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) faced a crisis as the government shutdown resulted in the termination of staff responsible for the agency’s flagship publication, the Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report (MMWR). This vital publication, often referred to as the “voice of the CDC,” was at risk of losing its entire team.
Former MMWR editor-in-chief Charlotte Kent revealed that almost the entire staff had been laid off, raising concerns about the future of this essential public health resource. The Health and Human Services Department initially attributed these layoffs to the shutdown, but it was later discovered that coding errors in job classifications may have led to the mistaken reduction in force notices.
Fortunately, as of Saturday evening, it appeared that the terminations had been rescinded, providing a sense of relief for the MMWR team and the broader public health community. The MMWR plays a crucial role in disseminating timely and critical information on infectious diseases, outbreaks, and public health trends, making it a valuable resource for healthcare professionals, policymakers, and the general public.
The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining a robust public health infrastructure, especially during times of crisis such as a government shutdown. The MMWR team’s dedication to their work and the swift resolution of the situation highlight the resilience and commitment of CDC staff to their mission of protecting and promoting the health of all Americans.
As we navigate the challenges of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and other public health threats, it is essential to support and prioritize the work of organizations like the CDC and ensure that they have the resources and personnel needed to fulfill their vital role in safeguarding the health and well-being of our communities.
