CDC Temporarily Suspends Disease Testing

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has paused diagnostic testing for more than two dozen infectious diseases, including rabies, monkeypox, and Epstein-Barr virus. The agency posted a list this week detailing the tests that are currently unavailable to the public.

Extent of the Testing Pause

This is not the first instance of the CDC pausing lab testing, but it represents the largest number of tests affected to date. Scott Becker, CEO of the Association of Public Health Laboratories, noted the unusual scale of the current suspension and expressed uncertainty regarding the underlying reasons.

CDC Response and Explanation

A spokesperson for the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Andrew Nixon, described the pause as temporary. He attributed it to “a routine review to uphold our commitment to high quality laboratory testing.” Nixon stated the CDC anticipates resuming some testing within weeks and remains prepared to support state and local partners.

Past Scrutiny of CDC Labs

The CDC’s laboratory operations faced criticism during the COVID-19 pandemic and were subsequently reviewed by a work group. The agency has been evaluating its testing procedures since 2024, according to Becker.

Impact of Staffing Changes

The pause in testing coincides with significant staffing reductions at the CDC over the past year. These reductions occurred through layoffs, retirements, resignations, and the nonrenewal of temporary appointments, resulting in a 20-25% decrease in personnel across the agency.

Significant Lab Staff Losses

The National Public Health Coalition reported substantial staff losses in specific labs, including a 50% reduction in personnel at the poxvirus and rabies labs. The CDC’s malaria branch experienced even more significant cuts.

Tests Affected and Alternative Options

The paused tests include those for common infections like Epstein-Barr virus, chickenpox, and shingles, for which commercial testing is available. However, testing for more rare agents, such as those causing “snail fever” and “sloth fever,” is also affected.

State Labs May Fill the Gap

Some specialized state laboratories, such as those in New York and California, have the capacity to conduct testing during the CDC’s pause. Becker expressed concern only if the pauses become permanent.