Statement from CAFP & David Bazzo, MD, CAFP President
California Academy of Family Physicians (CAFP) is alarmed by recent events that have targeted local health officers and officials. Most recently, Orange County Public Health Officer Nichole Quick, MD was forced to resign in the wake of backlash and threats after she ordered mandatory facemasks in public. Unfortunately, Dr. Quick is not the only county health officer who has been threatened.
CAFP President Dr. David Bazzo condemned the threats saying, “Public health officials should be guided by science without the fear of repercussion.” He continued, “we applaud these public servants for continuing to be guided by science and data in their work to protect the health of the public in the most difficult of times.”
Our tools for containing the spread of COVID-19 are limited and rely heavily on public health measures, such as physical distancing and wearing face coverings. Data supports the efficacy of wearing masks in public, even homemade masks can dramatically reduce transmission rates. CAFP is grateful to our state’s public health officials for taking on this difficult work. Because of these efforts, California has been able to flatten the rate of infection.
CAFP condemns threats, intimidation and attacks on those who are serving to protect the public health. We support our colleagues who continue to serve patients and the public with science as their guide.
