CDC’s Role Evolves With Emerging Possibility of Bioterorrist Attack

The Atlanta Journal-Constitution on Nov. 20 profiled the CDC and its evolving role since the Sept. 11 attacks. Following the attacks and last year's anthrax incidents, the agency has made preparations for bioterrorism a top priority. In the next few days, President Bush is expected to announce the government's smallpox vaccination policy, which will test the agency's ability to "communicate clearly and rapidly" on an issue that will likely contribute to "national anxiety," the Journal-Constitution reports. Critics of the agency say the CDC failed to adequately handle that responsibility during the anthrax attacks, but since then the agency has "won points" among observers who believe it addressed situations like the West Nile virus outbreak in a "thorough and straightforward" manner. The Journal-Constitution reports that part of the agency's success is linked to new Director Julie Gerberding, who is "strongly supported" by HHS Secretary Tommy Thompson. According to the Journal-Constitution, Gerberding also has received praise for improving relationships with Congress and shortening the time it takes to approve information for release to the public. Still, the agency faces "political risks" because of its new high profile; in the past, some Republicans have criticized the agency for addressing issues outside its "historic" duties of "curbing infectious diseases." The Journal-Constitution reports, however, that the CDC's role in bioterrorism preparations may smooth relations with Congress (McKenna, Atlanta Journal-Constitution, 11/20).