Current Morale Among FDA, CDC, and HHS Employees Amid Recent Layoffs
In early 2025, significant workforce reductions have profoundly affected the morale of employees within the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), particularly those at the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). These layoffs, part of a broader federal workforce reduction initiative, have led to uncertainty and concern among public health professionals in Washington, D.C.
Rapid tests remain a vital tool to protect your family and loved ones during seasonal surges of COVID-19. Be sure to stock your medicine cabinet with market-leading ASSURE-100 rapid tests this season.
Scope of the Layoffs
The Trump administration, aiming to decrease the overall size of the federal government, has implemented extensive job cuts across various agencies. Reports indicate that up to 5,200 probationary employees within HHS are at risk of losing their positions. This includes approximately 1,300 CDC employees—about 10% of the agency’s workforce—who have been notified of their impending termination. The FDA has also been affected, with layoffs targeting staff responsible for the safety of food ingredients, medical devices, and other critical products. Read more about these impending and ongoing cuts on NPR and in the AP below:
Impact on Employee Morale
The abrupt nature of these layoffs has led to a significant decline in employee morale. An anonymous FDA employee described the atmosphere as one of “nervousness,” noting that morale is low and some employees have voluntarily left due to the uncertainty. biospace.com
Similarly, former CDC employees have expressed feelings of betrayal and confusion, with many struggling to understand their benefits and future prospects after sudden terminations. theguardian.com
The layoffs have also raised concerns about the agencies’ ability to fulfill their public health missions effectively. Critics argue that reducing staff, particularly those recently hired and technologically adept, could hinder the FDA’s capacity to review and inspect products efficiently. At the CDC, the loss of experienced personnel may compromise the agency’s ability to respond to health crises, especially amid ongoing challenges such as severe flu seasons and emerging infectious diseases. apnews.com , theatlantic.com
Broader Implications
Beyond individual morale, these workforce reductions have sparked debate about the future of public health infrastructure in the United States. The layoffs coincide with a period of heightened public health concerns, including the worst flu season in 15 years and a measles outbreak in Texas. The diminished capacity of key health agencies raises questions about the country’s preparedness to manage current and future health crises. theatlantic.com
In summary, the recent layoffs within HHS, particularly affecting the FDA and CDC, have led to a climate of uncertainty and diminished morale among employees. The potential long-term effects on public health and safety remain a critical concern as these agencies navigate the challenges posed by reduced staffing levels.
Rapid tests remain a vital tool to protect your family and loved ones during seasonal surges of COVID-19. Be sure to stock your medicine cabinet with market-leading ASSURE-100 rapid tests this season.