President’s Letter from Bill Steinbach – Health Agencies

“Ohhhh, fuuuuudge!”

That line from the holiday classic ‘A Christmas Story’ (my second favorite seasonal movie) came to mind when I learned of the nominees announced for the federal government’s leading health organizations. Judging by the response of members who have reached out to me and to other PIDS leadership, it seems many of you experienced similar reactions.  Almost like you wanted to shoot your eye out.

The heads of the DHHS, FDA, CDC, CMS and NIH are impactful leaders in the nation’s health; therefore, these leaders must be stewards of rigorous science and advocates for public health. Misinformation, junk science, and unclear intentions threaten the legitimacy and excellent work these federal agencies have built up. But selection of a nominee is only one step in the official process.

PIDS has already begun working with IDSA and other related societies and partners to inform and enlighten the U.S. Senators who will be part of advice and consent, the next step in that process. Our goal is to impress upon them the tremendous value of sound public health policy, the need to continue focusing on infectious diseases, responsible investment in vaccines, and the importance of the scientific process, among others. We are always stronger together when staying on message for proven science and being positive in our delivery to the public.  

Additionally, we have our newly formed PIDS Advocacy Task Force (now would be a great time to volunteer, if you are interested) that will work on amplifying PIDS positions on topics such as vaccines, antimicrobial resistance, and ID compensation to the public and elected officials across all levels. Whether you are part of our official advocacy efforts or acting in your own capacity, I encourage you to use your voice, your expertise, and your passion for caring for children to shape the communities you call home.

On his way to his first inauguration (the final leg of which had to be done in secret as a divided nation was facing the prospect of terrible calamity), then president-elect Abraham Lincoln gave remarks at a stop that included a portion from the poet Henry Wadsworth Longfellow. From ‘The Rainy Day’ he shared, “Be still, sad heart! And cease repining; Behind the clouds is the sun still shining.”

I realize our work seems more daunting than ever, but this is not the time to be discouraged or despair. We, as individual pediatric ID professionals and the collective Society, must be leaders and strive for public health policy that protects children from infectious diseases. Rely on what you know to be the best care we can provide. Rely on each other. Rely on your Society. It may feel obstructed, but the sun is there, waiting to break through and shine. This is the time to unite our message for children.