CDC deputy director resigning after 6 months

ATLANTA, Ga. (Atlanta News First/CNN) — The second-in-command at the Atlanta-based Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is stepping down six months after she was appointed by President Donald Trump.

Dr. Jennifer Shuford said she is leaving to spend more time with her family.

Shuford, the former Texas health commissioner, was brought in as deputy director and chief medical officer to help restore trust in the agency. She previously earned praise for her handling of measles outbreaks in Texas.

Her departure comes amid continued leadership turnover at the CDC under Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.

Dr. Erica Schwartz is the agency’s director. She was confirmed by the U.S. Senate on Aug. 5.

Shuford’s last day is Nov. 12. Capt. Satish Pillai will serve as acting chief medical officer and deputy director.

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