A number of states have reported a significant surge in new cases linked to a widespread cyclospora outbreak, affecting thousands of Americans. Since May 1, cases of cyclosporiasis, an illness caused by the cyclospora parasite, have steadily increased nationwide, leading to hundreds of hospitalizations. No deaths have been recorded.
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported 6,707 laboratory-confirmed cases of domestically-acquired cyclosporiasis in 45 states as of July 28. These cases resulted in 423 hospitalizations. This marked an increase of over 2,500 cases since the last update on July 21. Furthermore, more than 11,500 suspected cases await confirmation or investigation, according to the CDC’s latest update. The agency notes that state data may include probable and confirmed cases, leading to variances in case counts.
The CDC is investigating multiple clusters of cases nationwide, with the largest outbreak linked to shredded lettuce from Taylor Farms. Initially connected to lettuce at Taco Bell restaurants in several states, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) later identified four additional states where customers were affected.
In response, Taco Bell removed the implicated shredded iceberg lettuce supplied by Taylor Farms from its U.S. restaurants on July 17. Concurrently, Taylor Farms expanded a voluntary recall of iceberg lettuce grown in central Mexico, marketed to 27 states. Federal health officials, however, suspect that other brands, restaurants, retailers, or channels might be involved as investigations proceed.
States Reporting Rising Cases
Michigan
The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services reported 10,773 cyclosporiasis cases, with 193 hospitalizations. Since July 27, the state noted an additional 1,373 cases.
Ohio
The Ohio Department of Health documented 4,013 cases as of July 25, increasing from 2,576 cases on July 23.
North Carolina
North Carolina reported 718 cases, including 24 hospitalizations, as of July 27. This includes 157 new cases and eight new hospitalizations since July 21.
Missouri
As of July 26, Missouri reported 593 cases, more than doubling the 216 cases noted a week earlier.
Florida
Florida’s health department reported 254 cases as of July 25, rising from 158 cases on July 18.
Iowa
Iowa reported 226 confirmed cases since the year’s start, with 47 patients reporting international travel. Fewer than 10 cases involved illnesses beginning in the week of July 26.
Virginia
Virginia recorded 162 cases as of July 23, with 47 new cases in the previous week. Of these, 66 cases were domestically acquired.
Understanding Cyclospora
Cyclospora is a parasite infecting food contaminated with human feces, often via contaminated water used in irrigation or washing. Ingestion leads to intestinal illness characterized by frequent, sometimes explosive, bowel movements.
Unreported Cases and Monitoring
The CDC states the official count includes only laboratory-confirmed cases. More than 11,500 additional cases await confirmation or further analysis, involving international travel checks. Many recover without medical care, remaining uncounted in official statistics.
As investigations continue, federal health authorities remain vigilant in tracing the source and spread of this outbreak.
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