CDC director axed nearly 1 month into role

Susan Monarez, PhD, has been removed from her role as CDC director nearly one month after being confirmed into the role on July 29, according to an Aug. 27 X post.

“Susan Monarez is no longer director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention,” the post said. “We thank her for her dedicated service to the American people. [HHS secretary Robert F. Kennedy JR.] has full confidence in his team at [the CDC] who will continue to be vigilant in protecting Americans against infectious diseases at home and abroad.”

Dr. Monarez was nominated by President Donald Trump in March, and had served as acting CDC director since January. She became President Trump’s nominee after he withdrew his former pick, David Welcon, MD, hours before his first confirmation hearing in mid-March. 

Several CDC employees told the Post that Dr. Monarez had an Aug. 25 agencywide call scheduled for Aug. 25, but it was canceled on Aug. 22. 

The leadership shakeup comes after an Aug. 8 shooting left one police officer and the suspected shooter dead on Emory University campuses in Atlanta, in front of the CDC’s Edward R. Roybal campus. 

Moreover, the U.S. is about to head into fall and winter months, when respiratory viruses like flu, respiratory syncytial virus and COVID-19 typically see a surge. In previous years, COVID-19 vaccine updated approvals and CDC guidance were finalized well in advance of the season, giving clarity to the public and providers. However, this year, uncertainty surrounding vaccine recommendations and access has raised concern among experts that gaps in protection could result in vulnerability heading into virus season.

The post CDC director axed nearly 1 month into role appeared first on Becker’s Hospital Review | Healthcare News & Analysis.