In the CDC’s Building 21, a climate of fear and paranoia prevails among staff who avoid Zoom meetings and hold discussions in soundproof offices. Following the appointment of Robert F. Kennedy Jr. as health secretary, over 10,000 employees have been dismissed, leading to turmoil within the CDC, FDA, and NIH. Employees express concerns over a shift in health priorities, the cancellation of research programs deemed “woke,” and a general dismantling of established public health norms.
Kennedy’s push for reform, framed as a mission to “make America healthy again,” has led to the termination of experts and changes in immunization policies, including the dismissal of the advisory committee on immunization practices. Insiders warn that these actions could harm public health by politicizing vaccines and closing vital programs, such as lead-poisoning prevention efforts.
Staff report severe dysfunction caused by extensive firings, a hiring freeze, and added bureaucratic layers that hinder efficiency despite claims of improving the system. As uncertainty looms, many feel disillusioned, fearing lasting consequences for public health.
