Interview with Dr. Céline Gounder on 'Face the Nation'

INTERVIEWER O'KEEFE: We're joined by Dr. Céline Gounder, our medical expert from CBS News, also affiliated with KFF Health News as Public Health Editor. Doctor, thank you for making the trip to Washington for this crucial discussion. The past week has been tumultuous at the CDC, following the dismissal of its recently confirmed director. She's now legally contesting her removal, and other senior staff have also exited. A particularly dire incident, a shooting at the Atlanta headquarters, occurred recently. Why are these resignations significant, and what is their impact on public health?

DR. CÉLINE GOUNDER: Understanding these developments is crucial as they ultimately affect everyone. The issue extends beyond the director; high-ranking figures in respiratory infections, vaccine safety, and public health data have also stepped down. The centers within the CDC have experienced similar leadership changes recently, leading to a gap in guidance. Such instability disrupts standard operations. Everyone is impacted through aspects like vaccine policy, now shaped more by political decisions and social media, resulting in confusion about coverage and eligibility.

Upcoming Vaccine Policy Discussions

O'KEEFE: Can you elaborate on the upcoming meetings about vaccine accessibility and allocation? What apprehensions were expressed by the former CDC officials?

DR. GOUNDER: These discussions are slated for mid-September. Deliberations will cover the initial Hepatitis B vaccine for newborns, crucial for preventing maternal transmission. RSV vaccines for infants are on the agenda, given its role in infant hospitalizations. Discussions will also cover the availability of COVID vaccines, possibly limiting them for healthy children and adults. Addressing or altering childhood vaccine schedules, like the measles, mumps, rubella, and varicella, marks a significant shift.

COVID-19 Trends and Vaccination Impacts

O'KEEFE: There's a case in Kansas City where a school shut down due to COVID, alongside spikes in several states. With fall approaching, what should the public be aware of?

DR. GOUNDER: Vaccines serve to prevent severe illnesses and hospital visits, and not everyone can afford to miss work. Vaccinating plays a key role in maintaining health to ensure attendance at work or school. The Kansas City school's temporary closure highlights potential future challenges if vaccination rates drop.

COVID Vaccine Eligibility Clarification

O'KEEFE: As someone with asthma, should I anticipate difficulties in accessing the COVID vaccine?

DR. GOUNDER: You, in particular, would face no issues due to your asthma, confirmed under the guidelines for those below 65 with at-risk conditions. Eligibility is straightforward for those over 65 as well. However, for healthy individuals aged 6 months to 64, without risk factors, clarity on eligibility remains elusive. Pregnant individuals fall under risk categories, and would be eligible for the vaccine.

O'KEEFE: It's been insightful discussing these vital topics with you. Thank you, Dr. Céline Gounder, for sharing your expertise. We'll take a brief pause now.

Overview of Face The Nation

© 2025 CBS Interactive Inc. All Rights Reserved.