Cyclospora Outbreak Overview
A Cyclospora outbreak has affected thousands across the United States. Health departments report cases are rising, with Michigan hit hardest. As of Friday, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) noted 1,645 confirmed cases across 34 states, 141 hospitalizations, and no reported deaths. More than 5,100 other cases are under review.
Potential Source: Shredded Iceberg Lettuce
FDA and CDC announced shredded iceberg lettuce from Mexico by Taylor Farms might be linked to the outbreak. Consumers are advised to avoid this lettuce from Taco Bell in Michigan, Indiana, Ohio, Kentucky, and West Virginia. Taylor Farms might recall products, though details are pending. Taco Bell stated there’s no confirmed link to their locations or specific ingredients.
Patient Experience: Chase Strangio’s Symptoms
Chase Strangio, a civil rights lawyer with ACLU, contracted Cyclospora after consuming lettuce and cilantro at a work lunch in New York. His symptoms included nausea, low-grade fever, and significant diarrhea. Though initially suspected a stomach virus, his symptoms evolved to severe stomach cramps and loss of appetite. Even after diarrhea subsided, these symptoms persisted.
Strangio sought testing after others at the lunch fell ill, eventually testing positive for Cyclospora. His worst symptoms included severe stomach cramps, weight loss, fatigue, and loss of appetite. This experience has left him anxious about consuming uncooked food.
Common Symptoms
According to the CDC, cyclosporiasis typically causes prolonged, watery diarrhea. Other symptoms can include:
- Severe fatigue
- Loss of appetite
- Weight loss
- Intense stomach cramps
- Nausea
- Increased gas
Treatment for Cyclospora
The primary treatment for Cyclospora is the antibiotic trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (TMP-SMX), marketed as Bactrim or Septra. CDC identifies this as the effective choice. Supportive care and hydration are crucial to prevent dehydration.
Strangio’s condition improved with Bactrim, although some colleagues could not take the medication and remained sick.
Origin of Cyclospora
Cyclospora is caused by parasitic contamination from human waste in food or water. It’s resilient and hard to remove from produce, though heat can inactivate it. Contamination happens when crops contact human waste via irrigation water or handling during harvesting and processing. It’s often contracted from raw produce like greens, herbs, and fruits.
Unlike other foodborne illnesses, Cyclospora doesn’t spread directly person-to-person. The parasite requires time in the environment to become infectious.
For more information, the editors of this story can be contacted: Jason Lemon and Anthony Murray.
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