Warning issued by ex-U.S. top military official about the potential resurgence of Measles and related diseases
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has been in the spotlight recently, following the resignation of its chief, Susan Monarez, after just 29 days in the role. Appointed by President Donald Trump at the end of July and confirmed by the Senate, Monarez's tenure was cut short due to a disagreement with Health Minister Robert F. Kennedy Jr.
Monarez was pushed out of her role by Kennedy because she refused to ignore scientific standards, approve vaccine recommendations in advance and without review, and dismiss experienced experts. This decision came after Kennedy had already cut funding for the development of certain mRNA vaccines.
Several high-ranking officials also resigned in the wake of Monarez's dismissal, including Debra Houry, a former senior CDC official. Houry testified before a U.S. congressional committee, accusing Kennedy of censoring scientific work, politicizing decision-making, and stripping experts of their independence. She resigned after ten years out of ethical concerns and stated that many experts no longer speak publicly about vaccines due to fear.
The U.S. has recently experienced the largest measles outbreak in over 30 years, resulting in two child deaths. Monarez warns of a potential resurgence of preventable diseases such as polio, measles, diphtheria, and whooping cough if vaccine recommendations and measures are changed without solid data.
Robert F. Kennedy Jr. is considered an outspoken vaccine skeptic and has been accused of sowing doubts about vaccines and spreading misinformation. His appointment as Health Minister has raised concerns about the future of public health policies, particularly regarding vaccinations.
In the aftermath of Monarez's removal, Kennedy appointed Jim O'Neill as interim director of the CDC, which suggests little resistance to his vaccine policy. The future of the CDC and its role in protecting against infectious diseases in the U.S. remains uncertain.
Monarez, however, stands firm in her decision to resign from her position because she could not compromise her integrity. Her departure has sparked a debate about the politicisation of science and the importance of evidence-based decision-making in public health policy.
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