Cyclospora Outbreak Response Near 'Catastrophic' Level: Ex-FDA Official
Summary
A former top FDA official warned that the federal response to a large cyclospora outbreak is close to a “catastrophic level” due to rising infections and poor coordination. The outbreak has affected thousands across many states, with the federal government investigating outbreaks linked to recalled lettuce.Key Facts
- Frank Yiannas, ex-FDA deputy commissioner (2018-2023), criticized the federal response to the cyclospora outbreak.
- The outbreak is one of the largest on record, with at least 1,947 people sickened by lettuce linked to Taylor Farms de Mexico.
- The CDC has received reports of over 4,100 lab-confirmed cases and knows of more than 7,400 probable cases as of late July 2024.
- There have been 308 hospitalizations and no deaths reported so far.
- Michigan has reported over 8,000 illnesses, showing differences between federal and state data.
- The FDA made a false positive lab finding related to the outbreak, causing confusion about the investigation.
- FoodNet, a program that monitors foodborne illnesses, made cyclospora reporting optional starting in 2025, raising concerns about monitoring accuracy.
- President Donald Trump commented on the outbreak publicly for the first time recently when asked about lettuce safety.
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