Susan Monarez, director of the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), was abruptly dismissed on Wednesday after less than a month in office – the shortest tenure in the agency's history. The Department of Health and Human Services announced her departure via social media without explanation, sparking immediate controversy.
Monarez's legal team contradicted official claims, stating she "neither resigned nor was fired," while accusing HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. of "weaponizing public health for political gain." The White House later confirmed her termination, citing her refusal to resign after being informed of leadership's intent.
The dismissal follows months of sweeping changes to U.S. vaccine policies under Kennedy, including the May withdrawal of COVID-19 shot recommendations for pregnant women and children. In June, Kennedy replaced the CDC's entire vaccine advisory panel with handpicked appointees, including anti-vaccine activists.
The Washington Post reported Monarez faced pressure to support revoking coronavirus vaccine approvals. Multiple senior CDC officials resigned Wednesday amid reported dissatisfaction with policy changes and perceived politicization of public health.
This leadership crisis emerges as global health experts express concern about potential ripple effects on international vaccine cooperation and pandemic preparedness strategies involving Asian partners.
