Jay Varma Severed From Weill Cornell Over Parties

Weill Cornell Medicine has severed ties with Jay Varma, New York City's former senior health advisor, after he was recorded discussing his participation in 'drug-fueled sex parties' while publicly advocating for strict COVID-19 safety measures. The institution confirmed that Varma was employed from September 2021 to August 2023 and had been an unpaid advisor thereafter, stating they were unaware of his alleged unethical behavior prior to his tenure. In the released video, Varma admits to attending underground parties and hosting gatherings that violated the very social distancing guidelines he enforced. While he expressed regret over his actions, he maintained that his public health decisions were based on sound science. The controversy has sparked broader discussions about hypocrisy among public health officials during the pandemic. Varma's admissions have drawn significant media attention and criticism, highlighting the disparity between his actions and the policies he promoted.