Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report

Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report. It is a primary publication of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and is considered an authoritative voice for public health information in the United States and globally. The publication provides timely data on epidemiological trends, outbreak investigations, and recommendations from the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices. Its content is used by public health officials, clinicians, and researchers to guide policy and practice.

History and purpose

The publication was established in 1961, evolving from earlier Communicable Disease Center bulletins. Its core mission is the rapid dissemination of public health surveillance data to enable effective action against health threats. Historically, it has played a critical role in documenting major events such as the initial reports on the HIV/AIDS epidemic and the 2009 flu pandemic. The purpose extends beyond reporting to include analysis and the publication of official guidelines from agencies like the Food and Drug Administration.

Content and format

Each issue typically contains several surveillance summaries, reports on investigations of acute outbreaks, and recommendations and reports from authoritative bodies. Notable regular features include data from the National Notifiable Diseases Surveillance System and summaries of influenza activity during the flu season. The format is concise and data-driven, often featuring maps, graphs, and statistical tables to illustrate trends in conditions from Lyme disease to Zika virus infections. Special annual issues may cover topics like the findings from the Youth Risk Behavior Surveillance System.

Editorial process and data sources

The editorial process is managed by scientific staff within the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, with rigorous review for scientific accuracy and clarity. Primary data sources include state and territorial health departments, collaborations with the World Health Organization, and networks like the National Respiratory and Enteric Virus Surveillance System. Reports often incorporate data from other federal agencies such as the National Center for Health Statistics and the Census Bureau. This process ensures the information is reliable and actionable for partners like the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control.

Impact and influence

The publication has a profound impact on shaping public health policy and clinical practice worldwide. Its early reports on issues like the Legionnaires' disease outbreak and toxic shock syndrome have directed national research and response efforts. It is frequently cited in major journals like the New England Journal of Medicine and influences the work of organizations such as the Pan American Health Organization. During emergencies, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, its data became a critical tool for officials from the White House to local health departments.

Related publications and programs

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention produces several related serials, including the Emerging Infectious Diseases journal and the Preventing Chronic Disease journal. Key surveillance programs that feed data into it include the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System and the Pregnancy Risk Assessment Monitoring System. Internationally, similar functions are served by publications like the Weekly Epidemiological Record from the World Health Organization and the Eurosurveillance journal in Europe.

Category:Medical journals Category:Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Category:Publications established in 1961