Foodborne Pathogens Pose Growing Threats in the U.S.

This year’s cyclospora outbreak highlights the issue of foodborne illnesses. Public health experts emphasize that cyclospora is not the only pathogen of concern. Dr. Jill Roberts, a public health professor at the University of South Florida, reports increases in five other pathogens: listeria, shigella, enterohemorrhagic E. coli, vibrio, and yersinia. These pathogens are more impactful due in part to better laboratory detection methods but also because of their increasing spread.

Listeria

Listeria monocytogenes can contaminate ready-to-eat foods, soft cheeses, and deli meats. Symptoms include fever, muscle aches, and gastrointestinal issues. Pregnant women, newborns, older adults, and those with weakened immune systems are at higher risk, potentially leading to miscarriage, meningitis, or death.

In 2025, a Listeria outbreak linked to prepared pasta meals sold at major retailers affected 28 people across 19 states, resulting in seven deaths and one fetal loss. Another outbreak tied to soft cheese sickened at least eight people in three states. The CDC’s PulseNet network has been crucial in detecting outbreaks, but underfunding is now a concern.

Shigella

Shigella causes shigellosis, characterized by diarrhea, fever, and stomach cramps. It spreads easily between people and via contaminated food. The CDC points to rising drug-resistant strains, increasing from zero cases between 2011 and 2015 to 8.5% in 2023, with no oral antibiotics available.

Roberts highlights that Shigella’s low infectious dose allows it to spread widely, especially in communities lacking access to clean food and water.

Enterohemorrhagic E. Coli

This E. coli strain, such as O157:H7, produces toxins causing severe stomach cramps and bloody diarrhea. It can result in serious complications like kidney failure.

A 2026 outbreak linked to raw cheddar cheese and raw milk affected nine people in three states. Roberts advocates for stricter regulations on irrigation and banning raw milk products.

Vibrio

Vibrio bacteria thrive in warm coastal and brackish waters, capable of causing intense gastrointestinal illness and skin infections. One in five with Vibrio vulnificus infections die.

Florida reported 12 cases and one death this year. Louisiana saw 34 infections with six deaths last year. Most cases are tied to raw oysters. Roberts advises at-risk individuals to avoid raw seafood.

Yersinia

Yersinia enterocolitica causes yersiniosis, marked by fever, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. It primarily affects young children and older adults, often linked to undercooked pork and raw milk.

Roberts suggests cooking food properly and banning raw milk products could reduce its prevalence.

Norovirus continues as the leading cause of foodborne illness, responsible for over half of cases, typically rising in October and peaking through winter.

For more insights, contact Newsweek editors Kara Dolman and Gray R. Thomas.