In recent months, a concerning pattern has emerged in the U.S. public health landscape: while infectious diseases are quietly on the rise, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has been notably more restrained in its public communications compared to earlier in the COVID-19 pandemic. From respiratory illnesses to measles outbreaks, the spread of disease is increasing—but without the loud, consistent messaging that once guided public behavior and preparedness.
This shift raises questions about public risk, trust in institutions, and the evolving role of the CDC in post-pandemic America.
A Surge in Infections
Multiple infectious diseases have seen notable increases in the past year:
- Measles: The U.S. has already reported over 140 cases of measles in 2024, surpassing the total from 2023 and reflecting a global trend of resurgent outbreaks due to declining vaccination rates (CDC, 2024).
- Respiratory Illnesses: The 2023–2024 respiratory virus season brought higher-than-average hospitalizations for flu, RSV, and COVID-19—especially among children and older adults (CDC Weekly U.S. Influenza Surveillance Report, 2024).
- Mpox (formerly monkeypox): Though cases declined sharply after the 2022 outbreak, clusters continue to emerge in urban areas, with low vaccination coverage in at-risk communities (HHS, 2024).
- Whooping Cough (Pertussis): States like California and Washington have seen a rise in pertussis cases, particularly in unvaccinated children, prompting localized warnings but no national alert.
The CDC's Changing Tone
During the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic, the CDC issued near-daily updates, held regular press briefings, and deployed widespread public messaging campaigns. In contrast, recent months have seen a reduced cadence of communication, even as the threat from other diseases mounts.
Part of this change is structural. In 2023, the CDC underwent a major reorganization aimed at streamlining operations and focusing on "quieter" communication to rebuild public trust after years of controversy and political interference during COVID-19 (CDC Reorganization Plan, 2023). The agency stated that it wants to "communicate science more clearly" and avoid alarmist messaging unless absolutely necessary.
But experts are worried that the pendulum has swung too far.
“We’ve entered a phase where the CDC appears more reactive than proactive,” said Dr. Thomas Frieden, former CDC Director. “The problem is that viruses don’t wait for perfect conditions. Delayed warnings cost lives.”
Public Trust at Stake
The CDC’s quieter approach may be an attempt to navigate the polarized information landscape. After facing backlash during COVID-19 for shifting guidance and political pressure, the agency is under intense scrutiny from both policymakers and the public.
However, less communication can have unintended consequences. A 2023 survey by the Kaiser Family Foundation found that only 53% of Americans trust the CDC "a great deal" or "somewhat"—down from over 70% in 2020 (KFF, 2023). Without strong leadership and timely information, misinformation often fills the gap, particularly on social media platforms.
“The absence of urgency from public health institutions can be interpreted as a green light,” said Dr. Céline Gounder, infectious disease specialist and public health advocate. “People assume the threat isn’t real, or it’s already under control.”
Why Public Warnings Still Matter
Even when diseases do not reach the level of a national emergency, public health messaging plays a critical role in:
- Encouraging vaccination: With declining vaccination rates in many communities, clear public health reminders are essential.
- Reducing stigma: For diseases like Mpox or STIs, public messaging can combat misinformation and encourage testing and treatment.
- Protecting vulnerable populations: Immunocompromised individuals, seniors, and young children remain at high risk from common infectious diseases.
- Driving behavioral change: From masking in high-risk settings to staying home when sick, simple behaviors can significantly reduce transmission.
A Need for Balanced Vigilance
It’s understandable that Americans are experiencing "pandemic fatigue." But viruses don’t get tired. While public health officials must be careful not to incite panic, the alternative—radio silence—risks undermining public safety and institutional credibility.
The CDC, as the nation's lead public health agency, has a responsibility not only to collect data but to actively share timely, transparent guidance. In a world still recovering from the trauma of a global pandemic, proactive communication is not a luxury—it's a public health necessity.
Sources
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). (2024). Measles Cases and Outbreaks. Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/measles
- CDC. (2024). FluView: Weekly U.S. Influenza Surveillance Report. Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/flu/weekly
- Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). (2024). Mpox Case Updates. Retrieved from https://www.hhs.gov
- CDC. (2023). Reorganization Plan: Moving Toward a More Effective CDC. Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/about/organization/reorg-plan.html
- Kaiser Family Foundation (KFF). (2023). Survey: Public Confidence in the CDC and Public Health Institutions. Retrieved from https://www.kff.org
