Public Health Amidst a Tumultuous Transition

Shifting Ground

The new administration has swiftly paused public health communications, hiring, and travel, leaving the landscape changed and the rules uncertain. "Welcome to the away game," as a federal advisor aptly put it. A strategic tactic, perhaps, based on a questioning of science and public health's role.

Steady Amidst the Storm

Despite the unsettling shifts, public health must remain steadfast. The health of 330 million Americans hangs in the balance. While reassessing programs and priorities is common during transitions, the scope and suddenness of this pause is unprecedented.

The Center for Disease Control (CDC) has delayed its scientific publication, MMWR, for the first time in 70 years, blocking vital information on the H5N1 bird flu outbreak. Respiratory virus data updates and meetings with partners are also on hold.

Concerning Signs

The suspension of NIH study sections, which determine research funding, and the requirement for presidential appointee review of scientific presentations raise concerns about value shifts. Key gatherings have been canceled, and a search for "Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility" (DEIA) programs with threats of reporting colleagues has cast a shadow over the department.

The Why Factor

The reasons for these changes remain unclear. It could be part of a transition or a deliberate signaling of a shift in priorities. Emails asking scientists to report colleagues and the micromanagement of research are unsettling reminders of previous administrations' attempts to control information flow.

The Impact

These changes have profoundly impacted the lives of those on the front lines. Teams are on administrative leave, researchers face uncertainty, and epidemiologists eager to share critical data are silenced. The suspension of scientific research grants has dire consequences for universities and innovation.

Collateral Damage

Public health is not just about health, it safeguards our economy. Disruptions to public health systems can have ripple effects, as evidenced by the recent avian flu outbreak and its impact on egg prices.

Reasons for Hope

Despite the challenges, there is reason to stay focused:

• This is a marathon, not a sprint. Burnout is counterproductive.
• We are not alone. Counterbalances, such as academic institutions and industry, can provide resistance.
• Public health is local. Local teams remain vital anchors for our communities.
• Science prevails. Ignoring public health has dire consequences, and reality will eventually prevail.

Strategic Engagement

"Attention and political capital are as scarce as financial resources," says YLE. We must be strategic and engage with reasonable voices in the administration who share the values of caring for the health of all Americans.

Public health extends beyond federal leadership. It is about the dedicated individuals, scientists, and community members who step forward when systems falter. There are unknowns ahead, but one thing is certain: public health is essential now and in the future.

Your Local Epidemiologist

Stay steady, stay engaged, and keep your eye on the ball. The health of 330 million Americans depends on it.

--Your Local Epidemiologist