Trump Administration Suppresses CDC’s Leading Health Journal

Journal’s Output Slows Amid Administration Changes

Concerns Rise as Key Health Publication faces Delays and Scrutiny

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s flagship health journal has seen a noticeable slowdown this year. A recent report suggests actions by a previous administration might potentially be contributing to these changes at the critical resource.

Sources indicated to MedPage today that scientific articles required clearance from a top health official. This individual, known for anti-vaccine activism, reportedly lacks a background in health or science. A spokesperson for the Department of Health and Human Services has labelled these claims as false.

Regardless of the specific reasons, the journal’s output has diminished. Publications have decreased, and the press no longer receives early access to studies under a standard embargo system. This marks a significant shift for the Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report (MMWR).

For the first time in its history, the MMWR did not publish on schedule. This occurred during a federal communication freeze in January.

Data analysis comparing May, June, and July publications from recent years paints a stark picture. Excluding peak pandemic years,the average number of publications in these months was 76. In 2025, though, only 35 total publications were released within the same three-month window.

The Morbidity and mortality Weekly Report (MMWR) is a vital publication for public health data. Its timely release provides essential data for health professionals and policymakers.

Frequently Asked Questions about the MMWR

What is the MMWR?

The MMWR is the primary scientific publication of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). It reports on public health findings and recommendations.

Why is the MMWR significant?

It serves as a critical source of information on disease outbreaks, health trends, and preventive measures, guiding public health strategies.

What has changed with the MMWR’s publication schedule?

Recent reports indicate a slowdown in publications and,for the first time,a missed publication deadline.

What are your thoughts on the impact of these changes on public health communication? share your views in the comments below and let us know if you found this information helpful!

What specific changes were made to MMWR reports by political appointees, and how did these alterations affect the data presented to the public?

The Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report (MMWR) Under Scrutiny

The Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report (MMWR), a cornerstone of public health information in the United States, faced unprecedented interference during the Trump administration. Published by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the MMWR is a vital source of data and analysis on disease outbreaks, health trends, and public health recommendations. Its suppression sparked widespread concern among public health experts and raised questions about the politicization of science. This article details the documented instances of censorship, the impact on public health interaction, and the lasting consequences of these actions.

Timeline of Interference: Key Events

The most meaningful instances of interference occurred during the COVID-19 pandemic, but concerns about scientific integrity began earlier in the administration. Here’s a breakdown of key events:

2017-2019: Restrictions on Key Words: reports surfaced of a “forbidden words” list circulated within the CDC, preventing analysts from using terms like “evidence-based” and “science-based” in official documents. This aimed to align messaging with the administration’s political agenda.

February 2020: Early COVID-19 reports Delayed: Initial reports detailing the severity of the emerging COVID-19 outbreak were reportedly delayed or altered by administration officials. This hindered the timely dissemination of critical information to state and local health departments.

Summer 2020: MMWR Reports Reviewed by political Appointees: A significant escalation occurred when political appointees within the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) began directly reviewing and, in certain specific cases, editing MMWR reports before publication. This bypassed the CDC’s established scientific review process.

September 2020: Dr. Nancy Messonnier’s Warning: Dr. nancy Messonnier, a senior CDC official, issued a stark warning about the potential severity of the COVID-19 pandemic. Reports indicate she was afterward sidelined by the administration, allegedly for contradicting President Trump’s more optimistic messaging.

fall 2020 – early 2021: Continued Editing & Delays: Numerous MMWR reports detailing the pandemic’s impact – including data on hospitalizations, deaths, and the effectiveness of mitigation strategies – experienced delays or were altered to downplay the severity of the crisis.

Specific examples of Suppressed or Altered Reports

Several specific instances highlight the extent of the interference:

Hospitalization data: Reports detailing rising hospitalizations in certain states were reportedly altered to present a less alarming picture.

masking Guidance: Internal CDC guidance on the effectiveness of masks was initially downplayed, allegedly due to concerns about impacting the economy.

Vaccine Safety Data: Early data regarding potential vaccine side effects faced scrutiny and delays in publication,fueling vaccine hesitancy.

School Reopening Guidance: Reports offering recommendations for safe school reopenings were reportedly altered to align with the administration’s push to reopen schools nonetheless of public health conditions.

the Impact on Public Health Communication

The suppression of the MMWR had several detrimental effects:

Erosion of Public Trust: Interfering with scientific reporting undermined public trust in the CDC and other public health agencies.

delayed Response to the Pandemic: Delays in disseminating accurate information hampered the ability of state and local health departments to respond effectively to the COVID-19 outbreak.

Increased Disease Spread: Downplaying the severity of the pandemic and hindering the adoption of public health measures likely contributed to increased disease spread and preventable deaths.

Hindered Scientific Research: The politicization of science discouraged researchers and public health professionals from sharing their findings openly.

Legal and Ethical Concerns

The actions taken by the Trump administration raised serious legal and ethical concerns:

Violation of the CDC’s Independence: The CDC is a scientific agency, and its reports should be based on scientific evidence, not political considerations.

Potential Violation of Whistleblower Protection Laws: Scientists and public health officials who spoke out against the interference faced potential retaliation.

Compromised Scientific Integrity: The suppression of scientific information compromised the integrity of the public health system.

Restoring Trust and Protecting Scientific Integrity

Following the change in administration, efforts have been made to restore trust in the CDC and protect scientific integrity. These include:

Reinstating Self-reliant Scientific Review: Removing political appointees from the scientific review process.

Strengthening Whistleblower Protections: Protecting scientists and public health officials who report wrongdoing.

Promoting Openness: ensuring that all CDC reports are published promptly and without political interference.

Investing in Public Health Infrastructure: Providing adequate funding for public health agencies to conduct research and respond to public health emergencies.

Resources for Further Information

CDC MMWR Website: https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/index.html

Government Accountability Office (GAO) Reports: Search for GAO