Trump must prioritize public health. Diseases know no borders.

As U.S. surgeons general under the Trump, Obama, Bush and Clinton administrations, we dedicated our careers to safeguarding the health of all Americans, both domestically and globally.
Through our experiences, we witnessed the profound impact of public health crises ‒ spanning from conflicts and natural disasters to the recent COVID-19 pandemic ‒ on individuals, communities and nations as a whole. We have also seen up close the real and lasting impact of U.S. leadership, action and collaboration in protecting Americans at home and abroad. For surgeons general, there is no higher purpose, nor greater result.But as we have all seen, when public health is compromised the repercussions extend far beyond physical well-being. Economic growth, employment opportunities, educational access and overall societal welfare are jeopardized when health security is not prioritized. Hence, we urge for a renewed emphasis on America’s leadership and accountability in global health security to avert such crises in the future.
The COVID-19 pandemic has underscored how a health emergency originating on one side of the world can swiftly transform into a threat to our own way of life. The strain on health care systems, sacrifices of front-line workers and tragic loss of lives have left an indelible mark on our society.
Moreover, the economic impact of the pandemic has been profound, with trillions of dollars lost across the United States and global economies.
Looking ahead, it is imperative to acknowledge the escalating risk of future pandemics and outbreaks. Diseases transcend borders and can proliferate rapidly through contemporary travel and trade networks. The safety and security of the United States are intricately tied to the health and well-being of populations worldwide.
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Thus, it is paramount to uphold global health security as a fundamental national security imperative.Throughout history, surgeons general have been at the forefront of combating the spread of diseases and advocating for health measures that safeguard all Americans. The success of past investments in global health initiatives ‒ such as the eradication of smallpox and efforts to address the HIV/AIDS crisis ‒ underscores the importance of collaborative actions with international partners and organizations, like the World Health Organization, in proactively preventing and responding to health threats.
As the new Trump administration assumes office, we implore its leaders to prioritize global health security and vaccine confidence as critical national security concerns. Strong public health infrastructure and global cooperation are indispensable in fortifying our defenses against infectious diseases.
By consistently supporting initiatives that safeguard populations worldwide, we can ensure the health and well-being of Americans within our borders.
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Although we, the past surgeons general of the United States, have served in different political administrations we were – and remain – aligned around the fundamental principle that the best science must form the basis of our recommendations. We strongly believe this must, and will, continue to be the North Star we follow in future U.S. health policymaking and implementation, for the health and well-being of our fellow citizens and people around the world.
The significance of global health security cannot be overstated. Disease respects no boundaries and can strike at any moment, as evidenced by recent outbreaks of H5N1 avian influenza, Marburg disease and the 2019 measles cases in Samoa that claimed 83 lives.
It is impossible to effectively pursue new administration priorities when grappling with preventable infectious disease threats and outbreaks. By fostering global health initiatives and bolstering vaccine confidence through evidence-based practices, we can fortify the health and safety of all Americans, and of our planet.
The time is ripe for our new leaders to reaffirm America’s dedication to global health security and sustain our legacy of leadership in this critical realm.
Dr. Joycelyn Elders, 15th surgeon general, 1993-94. Dr. Richard Carmona, 17th surgeon general, 2002-06. Dr. Jerome Adams, 20th surgeon general, 2017-21. Dr. Kenneth Moritsugu, acting surgeon general in 2002 and 2006-07. Dr. Boris Lushniak, acting surgeon general, 2013-14.