The Covid-19 pandemic highlighted the interconnectedness of the economy and public health, impacting businesses in various ways ranging from access to capital to managing sick workers to adjusting operations to suit the current environment. Mandy Cohen, MD, MPH, the Director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), has been leading efforts to protect public health and safety through disease control and prevention. As an internal medicine physician, she played a key role in guiding the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services through the Covid-19 crisis.
In a recent interview, Director Cohen emphasized the importance of clear communication, operational excellence, strong partnerships, and readiness to respond to health threats as key priorities for the CDC. She highlighted the agency’s initiatives to promote vaccination, hygiene, improved air quality, testing, and treatment to tackle fall and winter respiratory illnesses. Additionally, the CDC is engaged in international efforts to identify and contain infectious diseases before they reach the United States, as evidenced by its work on avian flu in Cambodia.
Director Cohen stressed the importance of investing in core capacities and capabilities such as data, talented personnel, mental health support, and assistance for young families to keep the workforce healthy and boost productivity. She underscored the role of businesses in promoting mental health, supporting young families, and encouraging vaccination among their employees. Director Cohen also emphasized the need for public trust as a foundation for the CDC’s mission and highlighted the private sector’s role in facilitating access to vaccines and disseminating crucial health information.
Small business owners and entrepreneurs experienced significant challenges during the pandemic, underscoring the importance of economic and health stability. Director Cohen urged business leaders of all sizes to prioritize infrastructure preparedness to ensure continued success amidst potential health threats. She recommended strategies such as vaccination encouragement, flexible sick leave policies, and remote work options to mitigate the spread of viruses and other germs within the workplace.
The CDC’s global efforts, including combatting HIV/AIDS through initiatives like the President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR), were highlighted as critical in safeguarding public health both at home and abroad. Director Cohen emphasized the interconnectedness of global health systems and the importance of international collaboration to identify and contain diseases effectively. She encouraged business leaders to recognize the economic benefits of investing in global health initiatives to ensure stability and resilience in a interconnected world.
In conclusion, Director Cohen reiterated the CDC’s commitment to protecting health and improving lives through its work at the local, state, and international levels. She emphasized the agency’s focus on community investments and partnerships, highlighting the pivotal role played by businesses in supporting the CDC’s mission. Director Cohen called for continued support and collaboration from businesses to strengthen public health infrastructure and ensure collective readiness to address health threats effectively.
