Cyclospora Outbreak Is Just the Warning—Experts Fear What's Coming Next
Cyclospora has sickened thousands. But experts warn other foodborne illnesses could strike next—and hit harder.
Lawmakers and health experts express concern over the potential for future foodborne illness outbreaks following the recent cyclospora outbreak in the United States. Jill Roberts, a public health professor at the University of South Florida, has noted her worry about five other pathogens that could cause mass cases of foodborne illness. Listeria remains at the top of her list, having caused two of the deadliest outbreaks in the U.S., linked to cantaloupe and queso fresco.
The CDC's PulseNet network, which played a crucial role in detecting and stopping both outbreaks, is currently under-resourced, raising concerns about the ability to detect the next Listeria outbreak. Experts argue that federal funding cuts have weakened the systems in place to detect and respond to emerging foodborne pathogens, particularly in light of climate change and its impact on crop production and disease spread.
FoodNet, a CDC program responsible for tracking emerging foodborne diseases, has faced budget cuts and curtailments under the Trump administration, resulting in the discontinuation of mandatory tracking of Listeria and other pathogens. Roberts highlights that other pathogens, such as Shigella, enterohemorrhagic E. coli, Vibrio, and Yersinia, have also been on the rise in recent years. These pathogens can be contracted through raw or undercooked foods, contaminated water sources, or improper food handling practices.
Given the current state of surveillance and funding, experts warn that conditions are ripe for the next outbreak to occur, potentially being far worse than previous ones. Norovirus, which accounts for over half of all foodborne illnesses, is the leading concern, with cyclospora being just one of many parasites capable of causing illness.
As the climate changes and modern farming practices contribute to the spread of bacteria like Campylobacter, public health officials and experts remain vigilant and concerned about the potential for future outbreaks.
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