Staff at the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases were directed to remove references to 'biodefense' and 'pandemic preparedness' from web pages as part of a broader NIAID restructuring announced by NIH leadership. The shift, described in internal communications reviewed by Nature, signals reprioritization toward basic immunology and infectious diseases affecting Americans now. NIH officials framed the reorganization as sharpening focus on immediate public‑health priorities, while some infectious‑disease experts warned the change could reduce capacity for emerging pathogen surveillance and countermeasure development. About one‑third of NIAID’s previous budget supported work on emerging infectious diseases and biodefense, underscoring the magnitude of potential program changes. The guidance has prompted debate among researchers and policymakers about the balance between near‑term domestic health challenges and long‑term preparedness for future pandemics.