US sees surge in cyclosporiasis cases across 40 states
More than 6,000 infections of the parasite that causes severe diarrhea have been reported in over 40 states, with Michigan recording the highest number.
The United States is experiencing a sharp increase in cyclosporiasis, a parasitic infection that leads to prolonged diarrhea, vomiting and fever. Federal and state health agencies have identified over 6,000 cases nationwide, though officials say the actual number is likely higher.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported that 1,645 cases have been confirmed domestically, with an additional 5,100 under review. Hospitalizations total 141 patients, representing about 9 percent of those with available data, and no deaths have been recorded.
Michigan accounts for the largest share of reported infections, with roughly 3,300 cases, followed by other Midwestern and East Coast states. The CDC’s Deputy Director of the Division of Foodborne, Waterborne and Environmental Diseases, Dr. Gwen Biggerstaff, warned that case numbers could continue to rise through August.
"While the investigation is ongoing, available information indicates that lettuce or salad greens may be a potential source of this outbreak," the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services said in a statement.
Past outbreaks have been linked to bagged salads, herbs, snow peas, green onions and raspberries. The fast-food chain Taco Bell is also under investigation after removing some fresh ingredients from its menu, but the FDA has not confirmed any direct connection.
"The FDA is continuing its traceback investigations on multiple produce items also including locations that are reported by the case patients before they became sick," said Donald Prater, Acting Deputy Commissioner for Food at the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.
Health officials advise consumers to wash produce thoroughly and to cook foods to at least 158 °F (70 °C), a temperature that destroys the Cyclospora parasite. Symptoms typically appear within a week of exposure, though they can develop as early as two days or as late as two weeks.
Primary-care physician Dr. Austin Williams told Kettering Health that individuals with persistent gastrointestinal symptoms, especially when multiple people are affected after sharing a meal, should seek medical evaluation and may be treated with antibiotics.