The Trump administration has dismissed numerous health inspectors at U.S. border stations, raising concerns about increased vulnerability to diseases entering the country.
Apoorva Mandavilli and Emily Anthes report for The New York Times.
In short:
- Federal employees responsible for inspecting plants, animals, and passengers for pathogens at U.S. borders were recently terminated.
- Experts warn that the absence of these inspectors heightens the risk of diseases like tuberculosis and measles entering the country.
- The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Department of Agriculture (USDA) have both experienced significant staff reductions, affecting public health and safety operations.
Key quote:
“We’re such a critical program, it makes no sense. If we don’t work and those inspections don’t happen, things start piling up at the ports."
— USDA official requesting anonymity for fear of retaliation
Why this matters:
As the world becomes increasingly interconnected, the role of these inspectors is more important than ever. Their expertise doesn't just keep exotic diseases at bay; it ensures that the food on our tables is safe and that our natural habitats are protected. The recent dismissals raise pressing questions about the U.S. commitment to public health and environmental stewardship in an era where both are under constant threat.
Read more:
- Trump administration cuts thousands of HHS jobs, including CDC disease investigators
- Trump administration’s CDC restrictions could hinder bird flu response
