1. United States
2. Iowa
3. Letter

I am writing to express my deep concern and disappointment regarding the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) recent lapses in updating critical public health and vaccination databases, and to urge you to take immediate action by conducting thorough oversight into how and why this is occurring. According to a recent audit of CDC data systems, nearly half of the agency’s surveillance databases that were previously updated on a regular monthly schedule have inexplicably paused or stopped updates, many for more than six months. Importantly, nearly 90 % of the databases affected were related to vaccination data, while others included information on respiratory diseases and other public health threats. These gaps in publicly available health information are deeply troubling. Timely and accurate CDC data are essential for tracking disease outbreaks, monitoring vaccination rates, guiding public health responses, supporting clinical decision-making, and maintaining public trust. When that data disappears without clear explanation or transparency, it hampers our nation’s ability to respond effectively to emerging threats and undermines confidence in public health institutions. The audit found that these unexplained pauses began in early 2025 following leadership and staffing changes at the agency. Because of this, research experts have described the situation as risking a “weakened outbreak response” and expressed concern that the United States may be operating without the timely information necessary to protect public health. Given these serious issues, I urge you to: Push for a formal investigation into why dozens of CDC databases, especially those tracking vaccinations, have stopped updating without clear public notice. Demand transparency from the CDC and the Department of Health and Human Services about the causes of these data interruptions, including whether they stem from policy decisions, staffing cuts, technical failures, or other causes. Require timely reporting on plans and timelines to resume regular database updates and strengthen oversight to prevent future gaps in this essential public health infrastructure. Evaluate the impacts of these data lapses on public health policy, vaccine confidence, and disease prevention efforts nationwide. We depend on accurate and current health data to make informed decisions, prevent disease, and protect our communities. I am disappointed that this administration has, according to experts, allowed critical surveillance systems to go dark, particularly on vaccination data that contributes to understanding and responding to outbreaks. I expect my elected representative to take the lead in ensuring accountability, transparency, and a return to dependable public health reporting. Thank you for your attention to this urgent matter.