Massachusetts reports 18 Cyclospora cases as Midwest sees thousands
Eighteen Cyclospora infections were confirmed in Massachusetts between May 1 and July 1, a figure consistent with seasonal norms, while the Midwest experiences a larger outbreak.
Eighteen cases of cyclosporiasis have been confirmed in Massachusetts for the period from May 1 to July 1, according to the state Department of Public Health. The number aligns with the typical spring-summer incidence in the state, officials said.
Dr. Zoe Weiss, an infectious disease specialist at Tufts Medical Center, noted that the Midwest is experiencing a much larger outbreak, with more than 3,000 cases reported in Michigan and Ohio. > "It's probable that we won't have as many cases in Massachusetts as we will in areas like Michigan, where they're already seeing thousands of cases," Weiss said.
Cyclospora, a parasite that causes diarrheal illness, is transmitted through contaminated fresh produce such as raspberries, bagged lettuce, cilantro, scallions, snow peas and basil. The parasite thrives in warm conditions and can spread via fecally contaminated irrigation water. Health officials warned that diagnosis can be challenging because symptoms may appear weeks after exposure.
As part of the broader investigation, a major fast-food chain announced it would temporarily remove certain ingredients from its menu as a precautionary measure.