In a sweeping overnight move, U.S. health secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. dismissed over 1,000 scientists, physicians, and public health officials on Friday, as the federal shutdown entered its 10th day.
The mass termination affected critical divisions within the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), including about 130 employees from the National Center for Immunization and Respiratory Diseases (NCIRD) -- among them senior officials specializing in infectious disease outbreak response.
The decision has drawn sharp criticism from former officials of the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), who warned that the move risks severely undermining the nation's capacity to address infectious diseases, mental health crises, and public health threats. Dr. Debra Houry, the former CDC deputy director and chief medical officer, said the cuts will have consequences, and she is concerned about the safety of the American public.
The dismissals come amid a prolonged budget impasse that has suspended numerous federal services. While the White House has yet to issue a formal statement on the HHS terminations, the move has intensified concerns over the government's ability to safeguard public health during a protracted shutdown.
US health chief fires over 1,000 personnel including key infectious disease experts amid shutdown
US health chief fires over 1,000 personnel including key infectious disease experts amid shutdown
US health chief fires over 1,000 personnel including key infectious disease experts amid shutdown
