Story perspectives

CDC Faces Staffing Cuts Amid Lettuce-Linked Cyclosporiasis Outbreak

7/23/2026

Summary

Story summary

FDA linked the cyclosporiasis outbreak to iceberg lettuce from central Mexico supplied by Taylor Farms, prompting a recall in 27 states and confirming 4,173 cases since May 1.
Daniel Jernigan said the 2023 USAID dismantling created a $30-40 million shortfall that forced staff cuts in the CDC division.
He added that a hiring freeze by U.S. President Donald Trump’s Department of Government Efficiency blocked renewal of contracts, leaving the CDC without specialists.

1 of 1

Story summary

FDA linked the cyclosporiasis outbreak to iceberg lettuce from central Mexico supplied by Taylor Farms, prompting a recall in 27 states and confirming 4,173 cases since May 1.
Daniel Jernigan said the 2023 USAID dismantling created a $30-40 million shortfall that forced staff cuts in the CDC division.
He added that a hiring freeze by U.S. President Donald Trump’s Department of Government Efficiency blocked renewal of contracts, leaving the CDC without specialists.