CDC Staff Reel from Shooting, Harassment, Vaccine Panel and Mass Layoffs

The CDC is navigating a period of unprecedented strain following a mass shooting at its Atlanta headquarters, harassment of staff, and the recent elimination of over 600 positions, including programs in maternal-child health, oral health, global HIV prevention, and violence prevention. Simultaneously, the agency announced a new panel to review COVID-19 mRNA vaccines, raising concerns among employees about conceding to disinformation. Staff report heightened anxiety and isolation amid these changes.

Public health experts warn that cuts to long-standing programs could disrupt essential data collection and prevention efforts, while the workforce’s morale and safety remain under pressure. Read more from CBS News here.