Federal Health Workers Demand Safety and Integrity Post-CDC Shooting

Over 750 U.S. Department of Health and Human Services staff petition Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. for federal worker safety after a shooting at the CDC. The letter emphasizes public health integrity and urges disavowal of misinformation about vaccines. The incident raises questions about the CDC's internal and external safety measures.

In the wake of a recent shooting at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in Atlanta, over 750 staff members from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services have penned a comprehensive letter urging Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. to address critical safety and credibility issues. Released on Wednesday, the letter demands immediate action to protect federal health workers and enhance emergency procedures.

The pleas come after a gunman targeted multiple CDC buildings, leading to the tragic death of a police officer. The attack has spurred heightened fears over the safety of public health experts, many of whom are concerned about being targeted due to controversial vaccine policies. The letter also implores Kennedy to publicly refute incorrect claims related to vaccines and uphold the CDC's reputation for evidence-based science.

Concerns about the morale and security of CDC employees and other health agencies are escalating, as the letter is backed by current employees and past CDC leaders. It also criticizes Kennedy for actions perceived as undermining the credibility of health institutions, thus urging Congress and the White House to support initiatives to restore trust in public health systems.

(With inputs from agencies.)