Lawmakers should remember CDC’s critical work

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) plays a critical role in our nation's pandemic response, and in our day-to-day public health. From providing guidance for medical professionals to instructing the public on personal safety measures, our communities are better equipped to handle this coronavirus crisis because of the work done by the CDC. Additionally, the CDC's Prevention and Public Health Fund allows officials to detect, prevent, and respond to health threats, including the current pandemic. The work of the CDC should be at the forefront of our elected officials' minds when they are making budget decisions. Eliminating, or even attempting to eliminate, these appropriations is irresponsible for our public health. Both in this global pandemic and in the time that follows, which I know is hard to imagine, I hope you will join me in reminding our elected officials of the importance of the CDC and their role in adequately funding its work.

Dr. Megan Srinivas

Fort Dodge