I am a retired registered nurse, and I am writing to express my deep concern regarding a policy reportedly discussed within the Louisiana Department of Health. A report by New Orleans radio station WWNO revealed that during meetings held Oct. 21, Nov. 14 and Nov. 21, an unwritten directive was issued for health department employees to cease advertising or otherwise promoting COVID-19, flu and mpox vaccines.
According to the report, this directive applies across all aspects of the health department's work: Employees are prohibited from sending press releases, giving interviews, organizing vaccine events, conducting presentations or posting on social media to encourage vaccination. The report indicated that this guidance was relayed to high-level managers of the Louisiana Department of Health by an unnamed assistant secretary and another official.
It is difficult to comprehend why a state department of health would implement a policy so at odds with its core mission of protecting and promoting public health. This decision not only jeopardizes the health and well-being of Louisiana residents but also exposes the department to potential legal challenges for what appears to be an indefensible policy.
I strongly urge the Louisiana Department of Health to immediately rescind this directive and empower its employees to fulfill their vital role in safeguarding public health. Promoting vaccination is a cornerstone of disease prevention and community health, and the department must be allowed to continue this critical work without interference.
JEAN HOLLAND
New Orleans