The outgoing head of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has emphasized the importance of maintaining focus and funding to protect Americans from emerging health threats. Dr. Mandy Cohen, who will be leaving office in January, stressed the need to continue global efforts to stop outbreaks at their source and to uphold funding, expertise, and diplomacy.
The CDC, with a core budget of $9.2 billion, plays a crucial role in safeguarding the nation from disease outbreaks and other public health risks. Despite facing challenges in recent years, including a decline in public trust due to missteps during the early stages of the COVID-19 pandemic, the agency remains committed to its mission.
There are potential changes on the horizon, including the appointment of a new CDC chief and proposals to restructure the agency and reduce its funding. However, CDC officials remain focused on their work, which includes building partnerships to enhance testing availability and disease surveillance.
While the CDC has made progress in recent years, there are ongoing threats to address, such as the confirmation of the first U.S. case of a new form of mpox and the continued monitoring of bird flu cases. Despite these challenges, CDC officials believe the risk to the public remains low.
As the agency prepares for a transition in leadership and faces evolving health threats, the commitment to protecting public health remains unwavering. The CDC's work continues, guided by a dedication to preventing and responding to health emergencies.
