The Trump administration's plans to restructure the federal government have resulted in thousands of federal health workers losing their jobs, with the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) announcing a massive workforce reduction of 20,000 people. The move has sparked widespread concern among health experts, who warn that the cuts will have devastating consequences for public health.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) are among the agencies affected by the restructuring, with top officials being put on administrative leave, laid off, or reassigned to remote roles. The CDC, which is responsible for preventing and treating diseases, has already notified thousands of employees that they are subject to the Trump administration's efforts to cull federal workforce jobs.

Critics argue that the cuts will have a significant impact on critical public health programs, including those focused on preventing and treating HIV infection, sexually transmitted diseases, respiratory diseases, and foodborne illnesses. Dr. Jade Pagkas-Bather, an infectious disease doctor at the University of Chicago, warned that the cuts will lead to "unnecessary, preventable death."

In contrast, HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. claims that the changes will save $1.8 billion a year and eliminate waste and inefficiency within the department. However, Kennedy's own anti-vax stance and history of spreading disinformation about vaccines have raised concerns about his ability to lead the department effectively.

The FDA's Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research (CBER), which regulates vaccines, has also been affected by the restructuring. Director Peter Marks resigned on Friday, citing a lack of truth and transparency within the department. Former FDA Commissioner Robert Califf wrote on LinkedIn that "the FDA as we've known it is finished," with most leaders with institutional knowledge and a deep understanding of product development and safety no longer employed.

HHS press secretary Vianca Rodriguez Feliciano has maintained that "ongoing critical public health efforts will remain a top priority and will not be impacted by this administrative realignment." However, critics argue that the cuts will have a devastating impact on the country's ability to respond to public health crises.

The move is part of a broader trend of attacks on the scientific community and public health institutions by the Trump administration. Hundreds of scientists have accused the administration of censorship, and the restructuring of HHS is seen as a further erosion of trust in the government's ability to protect public health.

As the full extent of the restructuring becomes clear, health experts and lawmakers are calling for greater transparency and accountability from the Trump administration. The consequences of these cuts will be far-reaching, and it remains to be seen how the administration will respond to the growing criticism and concern.