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CDC Slashes FoodNet Reporting, Makes Cyclospora Optional Amid Staffing Cuts

7/15/2026

24 4 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

The CDC cut FoodNet’s mandatory reporting list from eight pathogens to two, making cyclospora monitoring optional.
The agency reported 1,600 confirmed cyclosporiasis cases and 5,100 investigations in 34 states as of July 13.
CDC staffing fell by 25 percent by the end of 2025, including hundreds of layoffs in Atlanta.
Infectious disease specialist Linda Yancey warned that reduced federal resources could raise the risk of foodborne infections.

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Story summary

The CDC cut FoodNet’s mandatory reporting list from eight pathogens to two, making cyclospora monitoring optional.
The agency reported 1,600 confirmed cyclosporiasis cases and 5,100 investigations in 34 states as of July 13.
CDC staffing fell by 25 percent by the end of 2025, including hundreds of layoffs in Atlanta.
Infectious disease specialist Linda Yancey warned that reduced federal resources could raise the risk of foodborne infections.