Jennifer Shuford, the CDC’s deputy director and chief medical officer, is resigning after six months to spend more time with her family, with her last day set for November 12.

The resignation is announced by CDC director Dr Erica Schwartz, who noted Shuford’s gratitude for the opportunity as she steps away.

Shuford’s departure comes amid broader turmoil at the CDC and concerns about vaccine policy under the administration.

This is a breaking news update and may be revised as new details emerge.

The wider context includes Secretary of Health and Human Services Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s clashes with CDC leaders over vaccine policy and guidance.

Kennedy has faced criticism for promoting anti-vaccine claims and for altering CDC guidance, contributing to a challenging environment at the agency.

Trump previously praised Shuford and Schwartz, with TruthSocial cited in coverage of leadership appointments.

The Washington Post reported the departure on Tuesday, October 27, 2026.

Shuford’s exit follows concerns about the administration’s handling of vaccine policy as the agency faces criticism during outbreaks and vaccine campaigns.

CDC Director Erica Schwartz issued a statement praising Shuford’s leadership during a trying period, as the agency reels from measles outbreaks and vaccine campaign decisions.

Shuford brings experience from overseeing Texas’ 2025 measles outbreak and leading Texas’ COVID-19 response, with training as an infectious disease physician at UT Southwestern and an MPH from Harvard.

Shuford was appointed by President Donald Trump in April and joined CDC in June after serving as Texas’ commissioner of the Department of State Health Services and Texas’ chief state epidemiologist.