WASHINGTON — The U.S. Senate has confirmed Dr. Erica Schwartz as director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, giving the nation's leading public-health agency a permanent director after a prolonged period of leadership instability.

Schwartz was confirmed in a 51-44 vote and becomes the third person nominated by President Donald Trump for the position. She is the first permanent CDC director since Susan Monarez was dismissed following disagreements over vaccine policy.

Her appointment comes at a critical time for the agency, which is dealing with infectious-disease threats, vaccine policy debates and public-health preparedness.

During her Senate confirmation hearing, Schwartz emphasized transparency and scientific integrity while expressing support for the administration's Make America Healthy Again agenda.

The new CDC leadership will now face pressure to restore stability while navigating politically sensitive health policies.

Schwartz's confirmation marks a significant new chapter for the CDC as the agency works to rebuild public confidence and strengthen its response to emerging health threats.