Trump Suspends Public Health Communications

Trump just suspended all public health communications from CDC. We rely on the CDC Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report to keep abreast of what infectious diseases are circulating. I rely on it every day for patient care.

Trump supports the idea of “taking a break from infectious diseases”. I don't think he has a clue what doctors actually see.

The percentage of patients seen by primary care doctors for acute infectious diseases varies, but studies suggest that it is a significant proportion of visits, ranging from 20% to 30% depending on the practice setting and population.

Key details:

1. Common Acute Infectious Diseases: These include respiratory infections (e.g., colds, flu, sinusitis), urinary tract infections, skin infections, and gastrointestinal infections.

2. Seasonal Variation: The rate is often higher during certain seasons, such as flu season, when respiratory infections dominate.

3. Pediatric vs. Adult Care: In pediatric primary care, the percentage may be higher due to the prevalence of infections in children.

The percentage of primary care visits for acute infectious diseases does vary significantly by season, primarily due to fluctuations in the prevalence of specific infections:

Seasonal Variations

1. Fall and Winter:

   • Respiratory infections dominate, including colds, influenza, bronchitis, and pneumonia.

   • Visits for sinusitis, ear infections, and other viral illnesses peak during this time.

   • Influenza epidemics can dramatically increase patient volumes.

2. Spring:

   • Allergies can contribute to symptoms that mimic infections, but upper respiratory infections may still be common.

   • Certain bacterial infections, like strep throat, remain prevalent.

3. Summer:

   • Gastrointestinal infections from foodborne illnesses or water exposure often increase.

   • Skin infections (e.g., cellulitis, impetigo) rise due to activities like swimming or insect bites.

   • Respiratory infections are less frequent but still occur.

4. Year-Round:

   • Chronic infections or flare-ups (e.g., urinary tract infections, chronic sinusitis) may occur irrespective of the season.

Proportions by Season:

• Winter: 25–40% of primary care visits may relate to infectious diseases.

• Summer: 10–20%, with a shift in types of infections (e.g., skin and gastrointestinal rather than respiratory).

Implications:

Seasonal awareness helps primary care physicians allocate resources (e.g., flu vaccine clinics in the fall) and tailor diagnostic approaches based on the types of infections most likely during that time of year.

Trump's action interferes with our ability to accurately diagnose and treat patients. It is unconscionable and unfathomably stupid.