The new officer, Dr. James Mu, was approved by a 3-2 majority Tuesday night. Some residents were concerned about his open opposition to COVID-19 vaccine mandates during the pandemic.
Dr. Mu has practiced as a family physician in the county for 30 years. He is filling a seat that’s been vacant after the board of supervisors fired the last public health officer, Dr. Karen Ramstrom. Ramstrom was the target of criticism because she upheld state public health measures during the pandemic.
At Tuesday’s meeting, Mu said he wants to win the support of residents who might be wary of his past opposition to COVID-19 mandates.
“My goal is to increase trust in public health through transparency as we mentioned, and through honesty as well,” he said.
In 2022, Mu was part of a group of Shasta County doctors who opposed vaccination and mask requirements.
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