Workers' Compensation: CDC Disruption: Workplace Health at Risk

The recent disruption of the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)'s activities has raised concerns about the potential negative impacts on public health, particularly regarding the identification and treatment of infectious diseases and occupational exposures. Here's how this disruption could negatively impact employees, employers, and ultimately increase the cost of workers' compensation claims:

James Gathany, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention,

Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

Katelyn Jetelina, MPH Phd has written, "Here’s what’s unfolded so far:
All communications from HHS have been paused until Feb. 1, including all data updates on the website, CDC’s MMWR, HANs (emergency alerts), an meetings with partners. (Since the original announcement, some data has been released, so there is progress on this front and it’s changing by the minute.)
NIH study sections—which determine which research projects at academic institutions get funded—have been canceled, and travel has been paused. An NIH email suggests that all scientific presentations may now require review by a presidential appointee. (This is highly unusual. And this poor person reviewing presentations is going to get so bored.)
Key gatherings like the National Vaccine Advisory Committee and the Presidential Advisory Council for Combating Antibiotic Resistance have been called off.
HHS is searching for DEIA programs and threatening anyone who disguises them. They are asking for people to report colleagues.
160 colleagues from the National Security Council were sent home, leaving gaps in areas like emerging biological threats and medical preparedness."

Delayed Disease Recognition:
- The CDC plays a crucial role in disease surveillance, outbreak investigations, and disseminating critical health information. Disruptions to these activities can delay recognizing emerging infectious diseases or outbreaks, hindering timely public health responses.
- This can lead to the spread of diseases in the workplace, potentially exposing more employees and increasing the risk of workplace outbreaks.
Impeded Occupational Exposure Investigations:
- The CDC provides valuable guidance and resources for investigating and preventing occupational exposures to hazardous substances. Disruptions to these services can hinder employers' ability to effectively identify and address workplace hazards.
- This can increase the risk of occupational illnesses and injuries among employees, leading to higher workers' compensation claims.
Reduced Access to Critical Information:
- The CDC is a primary source of information on infectious diseases, workplace safety, and public health guidance. Disruptions to disseminating this information can leave employers and employees ill-equipped to protect themselves from workplace hazards.
- This lack of knowledge can lead to increased risks, delayed responses to outbreaks, and, ultimately, higher costs associated with workplace illnesses and injuries.
Impact on Workers' Compensation Claims:
- Delayed disease recognition and inadequate workplace safety measures can lead to increased workplace illnesses and injuries.
- This will likely result in a rise in workers' compensation claims, increasing costs for employers and potentially impacting employee benefits.

How Employers Can Mitigate the Impact:

Stay Informed:
- Monitor credible news sources and utilize alternative resources for the latest information on infectious diseases and workplace safety.
Enhance Workplace Safety Programs:
- Strengthen existing safety protocols, conduct regular safety audits, and ensure proper training for employees on workplace hazards and safety procedures.
Improve Communication:
- Maintain open communication channels with employees regarding workplace health and safety concerns.
Consult with Experts:

Seek guidance from occupational health professionals, industrial hygienists, and other relevant experts to address workplace safety concerns.

Related Articles:

When Skeptics Lead: The Next Pandemic Challenge 11/28/2024

Is Medicare-For-All a Prescription for Infectious Diseases in the Workplace? 6/19/2022

Investing for the Next Pandemic 9/21/2021

Is the workers' compensation system ready for the COVID-19 [coronavirus] virus? Live Updates 1/22/2021

Urgent CUC Data and Analyses on Influenza and Bird Flu Go Missing as Outbreaks Escalate KFF Health News 2/14/2025

Recommended Citation: Gelman, Jon., CDC Disruption: Workplace Health at Risk, www.gelmans.com (01/24/2025) https://workers-compensation.blogspot.com/2025/01/cdc-disruption-workplace-health-at-risk.html

Updated: 2/16/2024

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*Jon L. Gelman of Wayne, NJ, is the author of NJ Workers’ Compensation Law (West-Thomson-Reuters) and co-author of the national treatise Modern Workers’ Compensation Law (West-Thomson-Reuters). For over five decades, the Law Offices of Jon Gelman 1.973.696.7900
jon@gelmans.com has represented injured workers and their families who have suffered occupational illnesses and diseases.