Statement on lack of federal health leadership

The reported departure of leadership at the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, the dismissal of scientific leaders from the United States Preventive Services Task Force, and the lack of permanent leadership at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention endangers everyone. Insufficient expertise and capacity to drive research, respond to outbreaks and maintain evidence-based preventive service recommendations collectively pose a serious threat to our health.

At a time of active global and domestic infectious diseases threats, the country needs scientific leaders who champion scientific integrity and adherence to evidence-based decision making to keep our communities safe and healthy.

- Infectious Diseases Society of America

- HIV Medicine Association

- Pediatric Infectious Diseases Society of America

- Society for Healthcare Epidemiology of America

- Society of Infectious Diseases Pharmacists

About IDSA and HIVMA
The Infectious Diseases Society of America is a global community of 13,000 clinicians, scientists and public health experts working together to solve humanity's smallest and greatest challenges, from tiny microbes to global outbreaks. Rooted in science, committed to health equity and driven by curiosity, our compassionate and knowledgeable members safeguard the health of individuals, our communities and the world by advancing the treatment and prevention of infectious diseases. Within IDSA, the HIV Medicine Association is a community of health care professionals who advance a comprehensive and humane response to the HIV pandemic, informed by science and social justice. Visit idsociety.org and hivma.org to learn more.

About PIDS
PIDS membership encompasses leaders across the global scientific and public health spectrum, including clinical care, advocacy, academics, government, and the pharmaceutical industry. From fellowship training to continuing medical education, research, regulatory issues and guideline development, PIDS members are the core professionals advocating for the improved health of children with infectious diseases both nationally and around the world, participating in critical public health and medical professional advisory committees that determine the treatment and prevention of infectious diseases, immunization practices in children, and the education of pediatricians. For more information, visit pids.org.

About SHEA
The Society for Healthcare Epidemiology of America (SHEA) is a professional society representing physicians and other healthcare professionals in the fields of healthcare epidemiology, infection prevention, and antimicrobial stewardship. SHEA improves public health by establishing infection-prevention measures and supporting antibiotic stewardship among healthcare providers. For more information, visit shea-online.org.

About SIDP
The Society of Infectious Diseases Pharmacists (SIDP) is an international community of more than 2,400 pharmacists and healthcare professionals dedicated to optimizing infectious diseases pharmacotherapy and improving patient care. Grounded in science, education, and collaboration, SIDP advances antimicrobial stewardship, advocates for the essential role of infectious diseases pharmacists in patient care and public health, and promotes research and innovation to combat infectious diseases. Through the collective expertise of its members, SIDP strives to improve health outcomes, address antimicrobial resistance and disease prevention, and enhance the safe and effective use of antimicrobial agents worldwide. Learn more at sidp.org.