Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. addressed concerns regarding the current cyclosporiasis outbreak, stating that it is "under control." During a press conference held in Washington, Kennedy confirmed that the outbreak’s source has been identified, linking it to shredded iceberg lettuce supplied by Taylor Farms. Recalls have been initiated by the involved companies.
The outbreak has faced scrutiny, particularly aimed at the CDC and FDA for perceived delays in communication and response. Critics claim that cuts associated with the Trump administration have hindered the capabilities of these agencies, particularly in tracking foodborne illnesses. Kennedy dismissed these criticisms, asserting that while there were cuts to the FoodNet program, the surveillance for cyclospora itself remained intact. He clarified that the program had ceased mandatory reporting for certain pathogens, including cyclospora, due to redundancy.
As the investigation unfolded, confusion arose from a false positive test result for cyclospora in Taylor Farms lettuce. A clarification issued by the FDA emphasized its ongoing suspicion that the iceberg lettuce is indeed the outbreak’s cause. As of now, the CDC reports over 1,644 ill cases tied to the outbreak, leading to 94 hospitalizations without any reported fatalities.
The CDC and FDA, along with state public health officials, continue to monitor the situation, which first began on May 13.
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