Editor’s Note: This article has been updated to note that Vivek Murthy is the first Indian American surgeon general of the United States, not the first Asian American. The headline has since been changed.
President-elect Joe Biden has nominated former U.S. surgeon general Vivek Murthy, who also served during Barack Obama’s administration, for surgeon general.
Returning “America’s Doctor”: Murthy became the first Indian American and Asian American U.S. surgeon general back in 2014.
- CNN reports that Murthy served from 2014 to 2017, during which he promoted healthy food and efficacy of vaccines using popular TV shows.
- At the time, he also spread awareness about the opioid crisis, e-cigarettes, climate change and the Ebola and Zika viruses.
- During the presidential campaign, Murthy was Biden’s adviser on COVID-19.
- Now, he serves as co-chair of Biden’s coronavirus advisory board.
- Prior to his nomination to become surgeon general, he was reportedly considered for the Secretary of Health and Human Services post, which was eventually given to California Attorney General Xavier Becerra.
A voice for science: Murthy took to Twitter to express his appreciation, saying he is grateful for “the opportunity to help end this pandemic, be a voice for science, and support our nation on its path to rebuilding and healing.”
I never dreamed I’d have the honor to once again serve as Surgeon General. In this moment of crisis, I’m grateful for the opportunity to help end this pandemic, be a voice for science, and support our nation on its path to rebuilding and healing. pic.twitter.com/0litXnsIJ7
— Vivek Murthy (@vivek_murthy) December 7, 2020
- With the nomination, Murthy is expected to not only deal with COVID-19 but also delve into mental health, racial inequalities in health care and other issues about American health.
- Sources privy to the nomination shared how Murthy may be given an expanded title or an elevated role as surgeon general under Biden, reported ABC.
Feature Image via Getty
