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March 27, 2002

U.S. IMMUNIZATION NEWS

"Director Defends C.D.C.'s Handling of Anthrax Attacks"

New York Times (www.nytimes.com) (03/26/02) P. D6; Altman, Lawrence K.

Dr. Jeffrey P. Koplan, the departing director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), recently defended his agency's handling of last year's bioterrorism attack and discussed his accomplishments.  The CDC has been criticized for its poor communication abilities and lack of preparation for a bioterrorist attack in the wake of last year's anthrax attacks. According to Koplan, the CDC has in recent times significantly increased technical and financial support for local and state health departments and created ways for officials to evaluate the results of the various programs.  In addition, Koplan said, the CDC had bolstered public health programs to reduce the affect of diseases like cancer, diabetes, and heart disease on America's aging population, and it has more actively coordinated public health and clinical care.  The CDC has also strengthened immunization and other programs for adults and children, and Koplan said, it has worked to expand its work with other agencies in improving global health.

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