Acting CDC Director Jay Bhattacharya Called A Vaccine Study Design 'Crap.' What The Test-Negative Design Is And How We Know Whether Vaccines Measured With It Are Effective
Forbes
Last updated: May 12, 2026
Acting CDC Director Jay Bhattacharya reportedly blocked the publication of a routine study on COVID-19 vaccine effectiveness. The study, intended for the Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report (MMWR), focused on vaccine efficacy against infection and transmission in vaccinated individuals. This action has raised concerns about transparency and the prioritization of scientific data within the CDC.
- The study in question was part of a standard protocol to evaluate the ongoing effectiveness of COVID-19 vaccines. It aimed to analyze data related to how well the vaccines prevented infection and reduced the spread of the virus among vaccinated populations. The MMWR is a primary publication outlet for the CDC, disseminating critical public health information to researchers and policymakers.
- Bhattacharya’s intervention in blocking this study has led to speculation about potential political or administrative pressures influencing scientific reporting. Critics suggest that such decisions could undermine public trust in the CDC's scientific integrity. The incident highlights a broader debate about the independence of public health agencies and the flow of scientific information during health crises. The specific reasons for the blockage were not immediately clear, but the decision itself has drawn significant attention and scrutiny.
