Trump pauses updates from CDC, FDA, others — can GA residents still get health info?
President Trump made significant changes to U.S. health agencies and policies in the first week of his second term, and the changes have had sweeping implications for many government departments.
The Trump administration implemented a temporary freeze on communications from federal health agencies, according to a recent report from the AP.
This includes the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the National Institutes of Health (NIH), and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). This communication pause began on Tuesday, Jan. 21, 2025, and is set to continue until Saturday, Feb. 1, 2025.
What does a “freeze on communications” mean?
CNN reported the Trump administration’s order offered “little guidance as to what exactly it covered.”
The order does require approval from the White House before agencies distribute communications externally, reported Time magazine.
While some officials note it is not unheard of for new administrations to temporarily pause communication during the transition, concerns have been raised about the potential impact on public health.
Here are some of the key aspects of the freeze:
Scope: Communications such as regulations, guidance documents, announcements, press releases, social media updates, and website postings are halted.
Approval process: All communications must be reviewed and approved by a presidential appointee before release.
Impact on scientific publications: The CDC’s Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report (MMWR) was not published for the first time since its launch in 1961.
Cancellation of meetings: Several scientific meetings and advisory committee gatherings have been called off.
Research delays: The pause has affected NIH grant reviews and funding decisions, potentially slowing scientific research.
Purchasing restrictions: All purchasing at NIH, including supplies for studies, has been halted, with only essential requests being reviewed daily.
Where can you find public health information in Georgia?
With the recent uptick in communicable illnesses and the onset of the bird flu in Georgia, residents will need some guidance concerning updates and activity levels.
Here are a few online resources you can access in Georgia:
University Resources
What if there is a national emergency?
The situation with the federal freeze remains fluid, and circumstances can change quickly.
However, some exceptions may be made for communications if they will critically impact:
Public health
Safety
The Environment
Financial well being
National Security
This story was originally published January 29, 2025 at 3:14 PM with the headline "Trump pauses updates from CDC, FDA, others — can GA residents still get health info?."
