The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has reported that cases of parasitic illness caused by cyclospora have been identified in 15 states, linked to iceberg lettuce. Health officials are investigating potential sources of contamination.
This year, cyclospora cases have been reported in at least 47 states. Investigators are determining the extent of the outbreak linked to a common contaminated source.
The implicated states now include Arkansas, Iowa, Missouri, Nebraska, New Hampshire, and North Carolina, in addition to the previously listed Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Michigan, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, and West Virginia.
Initially, the focus was on lettuce from Taco Bell. However, federal officials later identified Taylor Farms as the likely source. The company recalled iceberg lettuce grown in central Mexico.
“There are several reasons cyclospora outbreaks are challenging to investigate,” explained Dr. Juan Luis Marquez, medical director of the Washtenaw County and Livingston County health departments in Michigan.
He noted the time delay between exposure and symptoms, difficulties analyzing the parasite in laboratories, and the extensive effort needed to interview affected individuals to identify common sources. Marquez also highlighted a reduction in resources across public health sectors.
Cyclospora is a microscopic parasite that causes intense diarrhea, often with explosive bowel movements. According to the CDC, such outbreaks typically occur in late spring and summer. The parasite infects through fecal matter.
Cyclosporiasis, the illness caused by cyclospora, is less common than those caused by other pathogens like salmonella or E. coli. Many cases are not linked to a specific food. The worst outbreak in the U.S. occurred in 2019 with about 4,700 cases.
This year, the situation is severe. Michigan alone has reported over 12,000 cases, including two fatalities. Nationally, over 25,000 cases have been reported. The FDA is monitoring five separate cyclospora outbreaks, with the 15-state event being the most extensive.
No product connections exist for the other outbreaks, including one affecting 115 individuals.
The Associated Press Health and Science Department receives support from the Howard Hughes Medical Institute’s Department of Science Education and the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation. The AP maintains responsibility for its content.
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