Cyclospora Outbreak: Rising Cases Across States and Key Details

A widespread outbreak of cyclosporiasis is affecting many states, linked to cyclospora, a parasite causing gastrointestinal illness. This situation has led to thousands falling ill across the U.S. since May 1. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported 6,707 laboratory-confirmed cases in 45 states by July 28. This figure includes 423 hospitalizations, but no fatalities.

The CDC noted a rise of over 2,500 cases since their last tally on July 21. More than 11,500 suspected cases await verification. The agency’s figures only reflect confirmed cases, while state data might include probable ones, resulting in higher numbers.

Multiple clusters are being investigated, with the biggest one linked to shredded lettuce from Taylor Farms. Initially, this was associated with lettuce at Taco Bell outlets in Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Ohio, and West Virginia. Subsequently, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) found that customers in Illinois, Kansas, Oklahoma, and Pennsylvania were also affected.

On July 17, Taco Bell removed Taylor Farms’ shredded iceberg lettuce from all U.S. restaurants. That same day, Taylor Farms widened its recall of lettuce grown in central Mexico distributed to 27 states. Despite this, the investigation points to other possible sources, like different brands or retailers.

States Observing Rising Infections

Michigan

The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services announced 10,773 cases with 193 hospitalizations. Since July 27, 1,373 new cases were reported.

Ohio

As of July 25, Ohio reported 4,013 cases, according to The Columbus Dispatch. This is up from 2,576 cases on July 23.

North Carolina

North Carolina reported 718 cases, with 24 hospitalizations by July 27. This includes 157 new cases and eight more hospitalizations since July 21.

Missouri

The Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services reported 593 cases on July 26, doubling the previous week’s 216 cases, according to USA Today.

Florida

Florida reported 254 cases as of July 25, up from 158 on July 18.

Iowa

Iowa reported 226 confirmed cases this year, noting 47 involved international travel. Recently, fewer than 10 new cases were recorded in the week starting July 26.

Virginia

Virginia has 162 reported cases by July 23, with 47 of these in the past week. The state confirmed 66 domestically acquired cases.

Understanding Cyclospora

Cyclospora is a microscopic parasite contaminating food through water tainted with human waste. It leads to intestinal issues with symptoms like frequent and explosive diarrhea, according to the CDC.

Unreported Cases

The CDC notes that their numbers only account for lab-confirmed cases reported through health channels. While there are over 11,500 potential cases needing confirmation or further study, many recover without seeking medical care. This means actual case numbers could be higher.