By Katherine Dillinger, CNN

(CNN) — Dr. Susan Monarez was confirmed to lead the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention on Tuesday in a 52-47 Senate vote .

Monarez, a microbiologist and infectious disease expert who has served across several federal health agencies over the years, was the CDC’s deputy director from January to March. She was nominated to lead the agency after President Donald Trump withdrew his first nominee, former Florida Rep. Dave Weldon. White House officials had privately voiced concerns about Weldon’s comments expressing skepticism about vaccines.

This year is the first time the CDC director post has required Senate confirmation; previous directors were appointed to lead the agency.

“She brings decades of distinguished experience in health innovation,

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