Why New Doctors Aren't Specializing in Infectious Diseases

Interest in infectious disease fellowships is declining at a time when vaccine-preventable illnesses and other infectious threats are resurging. According to National Resident Matching Program data, only 61% of infectious disease fellowship positions were filled this year, down from 88% five years ago. Applications have also dropped significantly since their post-pandemic peak.

 

Experts point to lower compensation compared to other specialties, lingering burnout from COVID-19, and broader strain on the field as contributing factors. The trend raises concerns about long-term capacity to address outbreaks, antimicrobial resistance, and the needs of immunocompromised populations — core pillars of public health preparedness and response. Read more from Axios here.