CDC Ends Flu Campaign Amid Severe Season, Policy Shifts

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has ended its successful 'Wild to Mild' flu vaccination campaign amid a severe flu season, following a review by the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) under the Trump administration. This decision coincides with Robert F. Kennedy Jr., a known vaccine skeptic, assuming the role of HHS Secretary. The campaign aimed to emphasize that while flu vaccines may not entirely prevent the illness, they significantly reduce the severity of symptoms and complications. The cancellation has raised concerns as flu cases have reached unprecedented levels, with over 50,000 hospitalizations in one week alone. This move is viewed as part of a broader pattern of public health policy changes under the Trump administration, which also includes terminating advisory committees on long COVID and health equity. The decision has been controversial, especially as the campaign was effective in educating millions about the benefits of flu vaccination.