C.D.C. Pauses Testing for Rabies and Mpox

The New York Times • April 1, 2026 • health

Key Points:

The CDC has temporarily paused testing for rabies and pox viruses, including smallpox and mpox, as part of a review of its diagnostic tests.
Staffing shortages due to layoffs, hiring freezes, and resignations have significantly reduced the number of qualified scientists in the CDC’s rabies and pox virus teams.
By July, the rabies team will be reduced to one expert, and the pox virus team will have no experts available to advise state and local health officials.
Public health experts express concern about the reduced testing capacity and expertise amid ongoing threats from emerging diseases and upcoming large public events.
Officials warn that while the situation may be manageable during times without major outbreaks, the lack of resources could pose risks if new health emergencies arise.