Congressman Veasey, Congresswoman Dingell, and Congresswoman Sewell Lead Letter Demanding Immediate Transparency and Federal Action Amid Growing Nationwide Cyclosporiasis Outbreak

Washington, D.C. - This week, Congressmen Marc Veasey, Congresswoman Debbie Dingell, and Congresswoman Terri Sewell, along with 50 of their colleagues, called on the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to provide greater transparency and take immediate action to identify the source of the nationwide cyclosporiasis outbreak, which has sickened more than 4,000 Americans across 41 states.

In a letter to the agencies, Congressman Veasey expressed concern that, despite the growing outbreak and more than 300 hospitalizations, federal officials have yet to publicly identify the source of contamination or provide sufficient information to protect the public.

"As this outbreak continues, the American people deserve answers," Congressman Veasey wrote. "Americans should have confidence that public health decisions are guided by science, transparency, and the protection of public health-not by outside influence."

"The American public expects federal health agencies to act quickly and transparently when outbreaks threaten communities. The ability of the CDC and the FDA to collaborate and rapidly detect, investigate, and communicate about emerging foodborne illnesses is essential to preventing additional harm," said Congresswoman Dingell.

"Americans deserve confidence that the food on their tables is safe and that when an outbreak occurs, our public health agencies will respond swiftly, independently, and transparently," said Rep. Sewell. "With more than 4,000 confirmed cases of cyclosporiasis reported across the country, families deserve answers about the source of this outbreak and what is being done to prevent additional illnesses. That's why I'm joining Congressman Veasey and Congresswoman Dingell in calling on the CDC and FDA to provide the transparency and accountability the American people expect. Public trust depends on timely, science-based communication, and Congress has a responsibility to ensure our federal health agencies have both the independence and the resources they need to protect public health." stated Rep. Sewell.

As the investigation continues, Congressman Veasey emphasized that identifying the source of the outbreak and communicating clearly with the public are critical to preventing further illnesses and restoring public confidence in the nation's food safety system.

The Letter can be found here.