Robert F. Kennedy Jr. plans to continue earning from drug litigation if he becomes the Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS). Ethics records show that he intends to keep collecting fees from past referrals during his time in office.
Meanwhile, federal health agencies have paused public communications this week. This comes as the Trump administration reviews its messaging strategies. A senior official at HHS directed agencies like the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to stop public messaging, including reports, advisories, and social media updates, until February 1.
In a memo, Dorothy Fink, the acting HHS secretary, instructed agency leaders to withhold documents and communications until they are approved by a presidential appointee.
This communication freeze has affected advisory boards that discuss public health threats. For instance, a meeting of an advisory council focused on antibiotic resistance was canceled. According to a notice, meetings planned for January 28 and 29 will not take place.
A spokesperson from the CDC confirmed the pause, explaining that it applies to non-emergency communications. “This is a short pause to help the new team establish a review process,” the spokesperson said. Some announcements deemed critical will be handled on a case-by-case basis.
Dr. Richard Besser, former acting director of the CDC, stressed the importance of prompt public communication from health agencies. He noted that right now, the CDC is monitoring bird flu across various species and tracking foodborne illnesses that could harm the public. “The CDC shares vital health information that helps people avoid illness,” he pointed out.
Besser also commented on the typical process during an administration change. While it’s common for new leaders to centralize communications, he cautioned that stopping public updates can jeopardize public health. This lack of communication could prevent healthcare professionals from effectively doing their jobs. He highlighted the need for science to progress independently of politics, as it forms the backbone of health-related policy decisions.
HHS, led by Robert F. Kennedy Jr., oversees major health divisions, including the FDA, CDC, and National Institutes of Health. Kennedy’s confirmation hearing before the Senate Finance Committee is set for January 29.
In the interim, local health departments express concerns about the impact this communication pause may have on community health information. Chrissie Juliano, director of the Big Cities Health Coalition, mentioned that delays could affect updates regarding flu cases and other seasonal illnesses during the winter months. “The pause may disrupt how critical health updates reach those making decisions in their communities,” she said.
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