A communications pause at federal health agencies has severely limited the flow of crucial information to journalists. Since January 21, the Department of Health and Human Services, which includes key agencies like the CDC and FDA, has halted routine reports. This situation has resulted in canceled interviews and incomplete responses from agency press teams. Journalists are concerned about the implications of failing to obtain accurate public health updates, especially during critical times such as the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.
"We're used to communicating pretty freely and openly with the HHS. So for them not to be able to speak with us, or for them to feel like they can't say certain things to us, we're just a little bit worried about that."
"... They're taxpayer-funded and they exist to help distribute information about health to the entire country, and if they're not talking to the press openly, that could have major impacts on the health of Americans."
"HHS is a massive department that affects many aspects of daily life... One reporter might go to the FDA with questions about a new drug under consideration."
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