Strengthening Public Health Authority to Contain and Prevent Communicable Disease

Overview

In its pervasive scope, its high rate of asymptomatic spread, and its economic impact, the COVID-19 pandemic has been unprecedented in the United States and the world. Initial analyses have revealed both strengths and areas for improvement in the U.S. public health system’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic. This fact sheet outlines efforts, both legislative and other, to evaluate and improve public health authority and emergency response in the aftermath of the pandemic.