Massachusetts reports limited cyclospora cases as outbreak spreads elsewhere
State health officials say 18 cyclospora infections were recorded in Massachusetts between May 1 and July 1, a level consistent with seasonal trends, while the nationwide outbreak continues without a confirmed source.
Massachusetts health authorities recorded 18 cases of cyclosporiasis, the parasite that causes severe diarrhea, from May 1 through July 1, a figure that aligns with the state’s typical seasonal increase. The Department of Public Health said the next update on foodborne illness data will be released on Aug. 1 unless an unusual rise occurs.
The source of the current nationwide outbreak remains unidentified, though investigators in the Midwest have suggested lettuce or other salad greens could be involved. Past incidents have linked the parasite to contaminated irrigation water on produce such as lettuce, raspberries and snow peas. No specific grower or supplier has been named in the present case.
Taco Bell announced it had "voluntarily and temporarily" removed certain ingredients at select locations as a precaution, though lettuce, cilantro and other items remained on sale in Boston-area restaurants.
The Barnstable County Department of Health and Environment urged residents to continue purchasing locally grown produce, stating, "> This is a good moment to brush up on produce safety, not a reason to skip the farmers market."
Social media users have circulated memes and commentary about the outbreak, some drawing parallels to political memes and noting prior CDC funding cuts. However, officials said the real-time state detection system handling the response is unaffected by those cuts.