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The Consequences of Silencing the "Voice of CDC"
Article Number: SIS682574AI220525
22nd May, 2025
Author(s):
Sonja A. Rasmussen, M.D.; Mary Lou Lindegren, M.D., M.P.H.; Lawrence K. Altman, M.D.; Michael F. Iademarco, M.D., M.P.H.
Abstract:
This article examines the implications of a temporary halt on public communications from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) under the Trump administration in early 2025. The directive paused the release of CDC’s Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report (MMWR) a trusted source for public health surveillance data, policy guidance, and urgent health recommendations.
The authors argue that MMWR’s interruption for two consecutive weeks risked delays in scientific data dissemination, including updates on H5N1 influenza. Historically, the MMWR has played a key role in identifying major health crises, such as early reports on HIV/AIDS, anthrax, and vaping-related lung injury. The temporary pause in health communications disrupted the timely release of vital epidemiological findings, raising concerns about government interference in scientific integrity.
Beyond MMWR, broader disruptions affected other public health advisories, including travel alerts, disease outbreak warnings, and research updates from the NIH and FDA. The authors warn that such actions may signal future changes to scientific publications and federal health communications based on political interests rather than public health needs.