The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has decided to terminate plans for assessing air ventilation systems in Texas schools to mitigate the spread of measles. This decision follows warnings that several staff members involved in the agency’s response to a record measles outbreak could face layoffs.

Background on CDC’s Response

Initially, CDC officials intended to broaden a service they had been providing to hospitals across Texas, which included on-site evaluations of ventilation and air filtration systems. These assessments aimed to identify possible transmission routes for the measles virus in various facilities, including schools.

Dylan Neu, a biomedical engineer with the CDC’s National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), emphasized the importance of on-the-ground inspections. “Being on the ground allows us to actually look at the filters that are in place and assess how they’re set up and monitored,” he stated in an interview with CBS News.

Findings from Initial Assessments

Neu’s team began their evaluations in Texas on March 20, following a request from state officials. During these assessments, they identified several critical issues. For example, a hospital had mismanaged the pressurization of an isolation room, incorrectly allowing contaminated air to escape. In another instance, a key step was overlooked when setting up an air filter, as it had not been removed from its packaging prior to activation.

“If they’re not actually out of the plastic bag, they’re not doing what they think they’re doing,” Neu explained. These findings underlined the necessity for direct inspections to ensure effective virus containment.

Impact of Layoff Notifications

Neu, who is currently employed but has been warned of a forthcoming layoff, expressed concern about how these changes might influence the CDC’s ability to continue its efforts in Texas. His notice indicated potential separation from the agency due to “current and future needs” within HHS.

Amid these layoffs, many NIOSH employees have already been reassigned or informed of similar job cuts. Neu reported that he received his layoff notice in Texas, just before returning from deployment, underscoring the precarious nature of staffing within the agency.

The Broader Implications

The cancellation of the ventilation assessment plans is not just limited to NIOSH. A wider impact is felt throughout the CDC as staff reductions have hindered ongoing measles response efforts. Agency officials noted they are struggling to locate the necessary resources to support Texas and other states dealing with outbreaks.

According to recent reports, the CDC is “scraping to find the resources and personnel needed” to effectively manage the growing measles spread across several locations.

Historical Context and Preparedness

Neu’s experiences highlight the vital role NIOSH plays in emergency responses across various health crises. In the past, the agency has provided essential support during outbreaks of diseases like Ebola and established isolation protocols during the early stages of the COVID-19 pandemic. NIOSH’s expertise in ventilation and contamination management is critical to public health response efforts.