CDC Temporarily Halts Testing for Rabies, Monkeypox, and Other Diseases Amid Staffing Shortages
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has announced a temporary pause in its diagnostic testing for several infectious diseases, including rabies, monkeypox, Epstein-Barr virus, and varicella zoster virus. This decision comes as the agency faces significant staffing shortages, with a reported reduction of 20% to 25% in its workforce over the past year. The CDC's laboratory operations have been under review since 2024, following criticisms during the COVID-19 pandemic. The agency has stated that the pause is part of a routine review to ensure high-quality laboratory testing. Despite the halt, the CDC is committed to supporting state and local partners in accessing necessary public health testing. 
