CDC Pauses Diagnostic Testing Amid Staffing Cuts

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has temporarily paused diagnostic testing for rabies, monkeypox, and various other infectious diseases. This decision, announced recently, affects over two dozen types of tests that are crucial for public health laboratories across the United States. The pause is part of a broader evaluation of the agency's laboratory services, which has been ongoing since late 2024.

CDC pauses dozens of types of lab testing during evaluation and in wake of downsizingCDC Pauses Rabies And Mpox Tests; Labs Face GapsNew York Times

The CDC's decision to halt these tests comes in the wake of significant staffing reductions, with estimates indicating a decrease of 20% to 25% in personnel due to layoffs, retirements, and resignations. The rabies and poxvirus teams have been particularly hard hit, with reports suggesting that by July, the rabies team will consist of only one qualified clinician, while the poxvirus team will have no members left. This reduction in staff has raised concerns among public health experts regarding the agency's ability to provide timely support to state and local health departments.

New York Times

The pause in testing has prompted state health officials to rely more heavily on commercial laboratories and their own limited resources. Scott Becker, CEO of the Association of Public Health Laboratories, expressed concern about the potential long-term effects of these pauses, stating that they could hinder the nation's ability to respond to emerging infectious diseases. Public health experts have warned that the reduced capacity at the CDC could slow the detection of threats such as avian influenza, especially as the country prepares for large events like the World Cup and the 250th anniversary of U.S. independence.

CDC pauses dozens of types of lab testing during evaluation and in wake of downsizing

Andrew Nixon from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services described the testing pause as a temporary measure, emphasizing that the CDC remains committed to supporting state and local partners. He stated, “We anticipate some of these tests will be available through CDC labs again in the coming weeks.” However, the ongoing staffing issues and the significant cuts to the agency's workforce have led to skepticism about the CDC's ability to restore its testing capabilities promptly.

CDC pauses dozens of types of lab testing during evaluation and in wake of downsizing

Critics have voiced concerns that the CDC's downsizing and the resulting pauses in testing could have serious repercussions for public health preparedness. Jill Taylor, a former director of New York State’s public health laboratory, noted, “In relative peacetime of no major outbreaks, no major pandemics, it’ll be fine,” suggesting that the current system may not withstand future crises.

CDC Pauses Rabies And Mpox Tests; Labs Face Gaps

As the CDC continues its internal review and evaluation of laboratory services, state and local health departments are actively seeking to establish contracts with commercial reference labs and enhance their in-house testing capabilities. The situation remains fluid, and further updates from the CDC and state labs are anticipated as they navigate the challenges posed by the current testing pause.

CDC Pauses Rabies And Mpox Tests; Labs Face Gaps