Jun 4, 2020 - Health

Where the CDC went wrong with its coronavirus response

Marisa Fernandez

A general view of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Edward R. Roybal campus in Atlanta — Photo: Tami Chappell/AFP/Getty Images

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention mishandled the coronavirus pandemic, sowing mistrust among health experts and the public, according to a sweeping report by the New York Times.

Why it matters: It's been reported that a faster and more organized response from the federal government could have saved thousands of lives.

The big picture: The Times' review of thousands of emails, in addition to interviews with more than 100 state and federal officials, public health experts, CDC employees and medical workers, paint a picture of confusion and mistakes.

What went wrong, according to the NYT:

Bad data: The agency's outdated systems collected inaccurate testing data and incomplete demographic information.
Staffing: The CDC's Division of Viral Diseases wasn't at full strength.
Political pressure: CDC director Robert Redfield had to juggle varying demands and wishes from President Trump, who has lashed out at the agency.
Unclear guidance: CDC's guidelines have left elected officials and the public confused about the reopening process, in part because of caveats and changes designed to appease the White House.

Add Axios on Google

Where the CDC went wrong with its coronavirus response

What to read next