The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, long considered the nation's — if not the world's — premier public health organization , is mired in a crisis that not only threatens Americans' health but also its very survival as a leading public health institution. Public health experts, including former CDC directors, are sounding the alarm, speaking out about the precariousness of the agency's position . This would undoubtedly undermine the U.S. response if the country faces another public health challenge requiring a rapid, coordinated response, like COVID-19. Health impacts are being felt in real time, with health care providers reporting confusion among parents as a result of the conflicting vaccine recommendations. Public health scientists and physicians are attempting to preserve data and surveillance systems that the Trump administration has been removing .