Gun Violence a Moral and Public Health Crisis, Says Surgeon General Murthy

JUne 26 :
On X, US Surgeon General Dr. Vivek Murthy pronounced gun violence in the US an immediate public health emergency that necessitates the "collective commitment of the nation" and demonstrates a moral deficiency on the side of the country. A Surgeon General's Advisory on Firearm Violence has never been issued before in our office's history, but that will change today. Dr. Murthy stated on X that gun violence is a national health emergency that endangers the lives of all Americans.

The "deep consequences" of gun violence on victims, communities, and mental health, he said, are profound. "An astounding 54 percent of adults have reported having a personal or family member encounter with a firearm, whether it be a threat, injury, death, shooting, witness, or act of self-defense," he continued.

Particularly heartbreaking is the impact this has had on our children. Dr. Murthy disclosed that firearm violence had surpassed all other causes of mortality in children and adolescents, including vehicle accidents and drug overdoses.

Community members' feeling of safety is jeopardised, and stress and mental health issues are exacerbated, when gun violence is constantly on display. Additionally, he mentioned that about 60% of adults are concerned about the possibility of a loved one being shot and killed.
Dr. Murthy's warning is backed up by graphs in his office's Advisory on Firearms Violence.