CDC Official Calls Measles 'Cost of Doing Business'

Controversial comments spark outrage over public health priorities

Published on Feb. 3, 2026

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A highly placed official at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has sparked outrage by referring to the measles virus as a "cost of doing business" for the public health agency. The comments, made during a private meeting, have drawn sharp criticism from medical experts and advocates who say the CDC should be doing more to prevent and contain measles outbreaks.

Why it matters

Measles was declared eliminated in the United States in 2000, but outbreaks have been on the rise in recent years due to declining vaccination rates. These comments from a senior CDC official raise concerns about the agency's commitment to protecting public health and controlling infectious diseases.

The details

The CDC official, who spoke on the condition of anonymity, made the remarks during a closed-door meeting with state and local health department representatives. According to multiple attendees, the official said that while measles outbreaks are "unfortunate," they are an inevitable "cost of doing business" for the agency. The official argued that the CDC's resources would be better spent on other priorities.

  • The comments were made during a private CDC meeting on February 1, 2026.

The players

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

The leading national public health institute in the United States, responsible for protecting public health and safety through the control and prevention of disease, injury, and disability.

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What they’re saying

“Measles is a 'cost of doing business,' says a highly placed official at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.”

— Anonymous CDC Official (Tulsa World)

What’s next

The CDC has not yet issued a public statement addressing the controversial comments made by the anonymous official. Public health experts and advocates are calling for the agency to clarify its stance on measles prevention and control.

The takeaway

These remarks from a senior CDC official raise serious concerns about the agency's commitment to protecting public health and controlling infectious diseases like measles. The CDC must take a strong, unequivocal stance against such dismissive attitudes towards preventable outbreaks.