On August 8, a gunman fired shots into the windows of several buildings of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in Atlanta. DeKalb County Police officer David Rose responded heroically and lost his life in the line of duty. Scores of CDC employees were in the line of fire, but, thankfully, none were physically injured.

In this most tragic moment, we mourn the death of Officer Rose with his family and fellow officers. We stand with our colleagues and friends at the CDC who work tirelessly as public servants to protect the health of our communities, our nation, and the world. We share our concern for the wellbeing of all CDC staff and all public health officials around the globe and send our support for the work they do every day. 

The shooter reportedly blamed COVID vaccines for his health issues, including his mental health problems. These purported motives highlight the perils of disseminating disinformation and misinformation about life-saving vaccines that are proven to be safe and effective, a practice that must stop before more lives are lost. 

These purported motives highlight the perils of disseminating disinformation and misinformation about life-saving vaccines.

This was not a single event. Federal, state, and local public health agencies have weathered years of maligning and campaigns disparaging their essential work. We at CIDRAP strongly condemn the use of violence, threats, and dangerous rhetoric that promote hate and undermine the integrity of our nation’s institutions that are built to protect and promote public health. We declare our unwavering support of the CDC and all public health agencies and their steadfast dedication to improve the health of all people.