The Trump administration has officially dissolved the Healthcare Infection Control Practices Advisory Committee (HICPAC), known for establishing essential infection prevention guidelines for U.S. healthcare facilities. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) informed committee members of the termination, effective March 31, aligning with Trump’s executive order to reduce the federal workforce. Prior to this, four professional societies had urged Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. to preserve HICPAC amid federal health agency budget cuts.
Members expressed concerns that the termination would hinder the evolution of infection control guidelines, especially given the increasing threat of drug-resistant organisms. Connie Steed, a committee member since 2023, warned that no updates would lead to outdated practices, compromising safety. Similarly, Dr. Anurag Malani highlighted that HICPAC was close to finalizing new guidelines for airborne pathogens, critical in light of lessons learned from COVID-19, including controversial mask recommendations.
Jane Thomason, a hygienist at National Nurses United, criticized the dissolution as it removes public transparency in drafting CDC infection control guidelines, potentially jeopardizing safety for healthcare workers and patients. HICPAC had provided significant recommendations since its inception over three decades ago, with 90% implemented. Malani emphasized the importance of maintaining consistent infection control practices nationwide to avoid disparate approaches by state and local health departments. The absence of HICPAC raises concerns about the future of infection control guidance, which is vital for safeguarding health during ongoing health crises.
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