Former CDC Official on the Cyclospora Outbreak

Summary

Former CDC Deputy Director Dr. Debra Houry discusses the cyclospora outbreak and conflicting statements from HHS and the CDC. She explains that confirmed CDC cases likely understate the true spread, while staff cuts and funding changes have weakened foodborne surveillance. She also says produce remains generally safe but advises food safety practices, and she criticizes recent vaccine policy decisions as unscientific.

• HHS says the cyclospora outbreak is contained and salad is safe, while CDC data through August 11 shows a 33% jump in cases.
• CDC confirmed cases are nearly 14,000, with about 10,000 more under investigation, and reporting is no longer mandatory.
• Dr. Houry says cases are likely higher because states may include suspected but unconfirmed cases.
• Taylor Farms is identified as at least one source, but she says it may not be the only source.
• CDC capacity has been reduced by workforce cuts and loss of mandatory FoodNet reporting.
• Dr. Houry advises cooking vegetables, peeling fruit, and washing produce while still eating fruits and vegetables.
• She also says the proposed separate MMR vaccine framework lacks scientific basis and could increase harm.