US Cyclospora Outbreak Surges Past 2,600 Cases, Lettuce Blamed

The United States is grappling with a widespread outbreak of Cyclospora infection, with confirmed cases exceeding 2,600. Health officials have pinpointed lettuce and salad greens as the likely culprits behind this surge in the intestinal illness, which is typically contracted through contaminated food or water.

Michigan has reported the highest number of infections, with 2,640 cases and 44 hospitalizations as of mid-June. This figure starkly contrasts with the usual 40 to 50 annual cases, setting a new record. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has also noted unusual increases in other states, confirming at least 843 infections across 31 states, leading to 86 hospitalizations.

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The number of Cyclospora infections in the U.S. is expected to reach an all-time high this year.

Public health experts anticipate this year's case count to be the highest ever recorded in the U.S. Investigations suggest that lettuce or salad mixes are the probable cause, though other food sources cannot be entirely ruled out. Similar outbreaks linked to leafy greens occurred in 2020 and 2022, involving packaged salads and Caesar salad kits respectively.

In response, health authorities are recommending specific preparation guidelines. They advise purchasing whole heads of lettuce, discarding the two to three outer leaves, and washing the inner leaves meticulously under running water. While washing may not eliminate all parasites, it can reduce the risk of infection. Cooking produce to at least 158 degrees Fahrenheit (70 degrees Celsius) is also suggested. Some fast-food chains have preemptively stopped using certain vegetables as a precautionary measure.

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Lettuce or salad greens appear to be the potential source of this outbreak based on current investigations.