Over 750 U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) staff, including former leaders at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), have urged Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. to ensure the safety of federal health workers. This call for action follows the recent shooting at CDC buildings in Atlanta.
Request for Urgent Action by September 2
The group of health workers called for HHS to improve emergency procedures and alerts. They also requested immediate action to address online harassment targeting federal staff.
This harassment includes publishing personal information and agency affiliations, further endangering the well-being of employees.
The Impact of Erosion of Trust
The letter emphasized that the continued erosion of trust in public health agencies poses a risk to public safety. The signatories, many of whom remain anonymous for fear of retaliation, urged Kennedy to act in the best interest of the American people.
Among the signatories was CDC physician Anna Yousaf, who expressed concern over the situation.
Shooting at CDC Headquarters
On August 8, a gunman opened fire at six CDC buildings in Atlanta, killing police officer David Rose before taking his own life.
Investigators found writings at the shooter’s home that expressed discontent with the COVID-19 vaccine, fueling concerns about the influence of anti-vaccine rhetoric.
Increased Security at the CDC
In response to the attack, the CDC tightened security measures. Most employees were instructed to work from home, and vehicle decals identifying staff were removed. These actions were taken to protect employees from further harm amid rising threats.
Call for Kennedy to Address Misinformation
In the letter, HHS staff urged Kennedy to publicly disavow misleading claims about vaccines and infectious diseases.
They accused him of undermining public health efforts, particularly through his attacks on CDC staff and the firing of key personnel. They also criticized his actions related to childhood vaccination and autism.
Kennedy’s Role as Vaccine Skeptic
Kennedy, known for his long-standing skepticism about vaccines, has made significant changes to vaccine and public health policies as HHS secretary.
Notably, he fired all 17 members of the CDC’s vaccine advisory panel last June, further deepening the divide between his administration and public health experts.
Pressure from Multiple Agencies
The letter, which was also sent to Congress and the White House, reflects a broader concern among federal health workers.
Staff members from the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and other HHS agencies signed the letter, expressing their frustration with the current administration’s approach to public health.
HHS Response to Criticism
In response to the concerns raised, a spokesperson for the HHS reiterated that Kennedy prioritizes the safety and well-being of CDC employees.
The spokesperson also mentioned that Kennedy visited the CDC headquarters in Atlanta following the shooting to offer his support and show his commitment to the health of federal workers.
