APIC Expresses Deep Concern Over Ouster of CDC Director Dr. Susan Monarez

Calls for Stability, Transparency, and Commitment to Evidence-Based Public Health

Washington, D.C. - August 28, 2025 - The Association for Professionals in Infection Control and Epidemiology (APIC) today issued a statement expressing grave concern over the abrupt removal of Dr. Susan Monarez as Director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). APIC warns that the decision threatens to destabilize national preparedness efforts and undermines the integrity of infection prevention and control (IPC) systems at a time of heightened global health risk.

In addition to Dr. Monarez's removal, APIC is alarmed by the resignations of several other senior CDC officials announced this week. Chief Medical Officer Debra Houry, National Center for Immunization and Respiratory Diseases Director Demetre Daskalakis, and National Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Infectious Diseases Director Dan Jernigan all stepped down, citing budget cuts, agency reorganization, and the politicization of public health efforts. These departures further destabilize the CDC and jeopardize its ability to address critical health challenges, leaving infection prevention and control professionals without essential leadership and guidance.

"Dr. Monarez brought a critical blend of scientific rigor, biodefense expertise, and cross-agency coordination to the CDC," said APIC President Dr. Carol McLay. "Her removal-amid ongoing threats to public health infrastructure, misinformation, and workforce attrition-raises serious questions about the federal commitment to evidence-based leadership."

APIC notes that Dr. Monarez's brief tenure coincides with unprecedented challenges, including a violent attack on CDC's Atlanta campus, sweeping changes to vaccine policy, and deep staffing cuts. Her ouster leaves the agency leaderless at a time when IPC professionals rely on CDC guidance to manage emerging threats, antimicrobial resistance, and healthcare-associated infections.

APIC urges policymakers to take immediate action to ensure that the CDC has the continuity of resources and leadership it needs to fulfill its mission and keep Americans safe-before the next crisis tests our readiness.

About APIC

Founded in 1972, the Association for Professionals in Infection Control and Epidemiology (APIC) is the leading association for infection preventionists and epidemiologists. With more than 15,000 members, APIC advances the science and practice of infection prevention and control. APIC carries out its mission through research, advocacy, and patient safety; education, credentialing, and certification; and fostering development of the infection prevention and control workforce of the future. Together with our members and partners, we are working toward a safer world through the prevention of infection. Join us and learn more at apic.org.

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