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CDC Pauses Disease Testing Amid Staffing Shortages, Measles Warning at O'Hare

4/7/2026

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CDC Testing Pause

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) paused testing for 31 infectious diseases during a quality review begun in late 2024.
A CDC spokesperson said the agency will assist health departments during the pause.
The agency's staffing shortages limit after-hours advice.
U.S. President Donald Trump signed an executive order imposing a 100% tariff on imported brand-name drugs.
Illinois health officials warned of potential measles exposure at O'Hare International Airport.

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Edwards Assures Testing

In New Mexico, the CDC pause on diagnostic tests will not disrupt operations.
The pause may strain resources for unusual cases.
State Laboratory Director Michael Edwards expressed confidence in testing capabilities and collaboration with neighboring labs.
Staffing cuts at the CDC leave no experts available for 24/7 rabies consultations.
The timeline for restoring CDC staffing remains uncertain, following a rabid bobcat incident that required vaccinations for two individuals.

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CDC Testing Pause

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) paused testing for 31 infectious diseases during a quality review begun in late 2024.
A CDC spokesperson said the agency will assist health departments during the pause.
The agency's staffing shortages limit after-hours advice.
U.S. President Donald Trump signed an executive order imposing a 100% tariff on imported brand-name drugs.
Illinois health officials warned of potential measles exposure at O'Hare International Airport.

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