CDC reportedly expands US cyclosporiasis outbreak to 15 states

The largest known outbreak of cyclosporiasis in the United States has reportedly expanded, with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) now including 15 states in its latest figures. The Washington Post, citing individuals familiar with the matter, reported the addition of six states to the outbreak list: Arkansas, Iowa, Missouri, Nebraska, New Hampshire, and North Carolina.

Arkansas's health department confirmed its inclusion, stating that the CDC is adding the state to the multi-state outbreak designation for cyclosporiasis. The CDC had previously recorded 6,707 laboratory-confirmed cases and an additional 11,500 suspected cases awaiting confirmation as of July 28. Cases have been reported across 45 states since May, though the majority of suspected cases are concentrated in Michigan and Ohio.

Cyclosporiasis, a form of food poisoning caused by the parasite Cyclospora cayetanensis, typically manifests with symptoms such as diarrhea, loss of appetite, bloating, fatigue, fever, stomach cramps, nausea, and vomiting. The parasite spreads through contaminated food or water, with symptoms usually appearing about a week after infection and potentially lasting for weeks without treatment.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is investigating multiple cyclosporiasis outbreaks, having identified iceberg lettuce from Taylor Farms de Mexico as the source of one particular outbreak. In response, Taylor Farms initiated a voluntary recall of lettuce distributed to restaurants and grocery stores in numerous states. The CDC has cautioned the public against consuming the recalled lettuce and advised individuals experiencing symptoms to seek medical attention.