CDC Launched Center for Forecasting and Outbreak Analytics

Last week, the CDC launched its Center for Forecasting and Outbreak Analytics. The center aims to be like the "National Weather Service for infectious diseases," helping to guide decision-making at all levels. Dylan George, epidemiologist and director of operations for the new center and his small team of colleagues are faced with tackling a "critical need" to improve the government's "ability to forecast and model emerging health threats." Planning for the center began in August, backed by $200 million in initial funding from the 2021 Covid-19 stimulus package, the American Rescue Plan.