Infections caused by foodborne pathogens are a significant concern in the United States, resulting in millions of cases, hospitalizations, and deaths each year. The U.S. Foodborne Diseases Active Surveillance Network (FoodNet) monitors major foodborne pathogens across the country and has observed a notable reduction in enteric infections between 2020 and 2021. This decline can be attributed to various public health interventions, behavioral changes, and healthcare practices implemented during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, with the easing of travel restrictions and a return to normalcy following widespread COVID-19 vaccination, there has been a resurgence in enteric infections. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), along with state health departments, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and the Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS), conducted surveillance on over 50 million people in 2022, representing about 15% of the U.S. population. Bacterial cultures, diagnostic tests, polymerase chain reaction assays, and microscopy were employed to diagnose various bacterial infections, including Cyclospora infections. Incidence rates were calculated using data from the U.S. Census Bureau and the total number of foodborne pathogen infections in 2022. The study also examined hospitalizations and deaths associated with foodborne pathogens, as well as infections related to outbreaks and international travel. Additionally, post-diarrheal hemolytic uremic syndrome among adolescents and children was analyzed as a complication of Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli. The findings highlight the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on enteric infections and emphasize the need for continued vigilance in preventing and controlling these foodborne illnesses. Ongoing surveillance and interventions are crucial to protect public health and reduce the burden of enteric infections in the United States.

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