Florida reports 158 Cyclospora cases across 36 counties since May

The Florida Department of Health said 158 people have been infected with Cyclospora, a parasite that causes severe diarrhea, in 36 counties since May 1, according to data released on July 18. Miami-Dade County reported the highest number with 33 cases, followed by Lee County with 16 and Broward County with 13. New cases were identified for the first time in Hernando, Leon, Martin, Santa Rosa, Sarasota, Wakulla and Walton counties.

Nationwide, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) noted nearly 4,200 cases in more than 41 states since May, including over 7,400 additional reports that have not yet been laboratory-confirmed. The agency recorded 308 hospitalizations and no deaths. CDC officials warned that official counts may lag behind state reports and that many infections go unreported because people treat symptoms at home.

Dr. Kami Kim, professor of medicine and chief of infectious disease at USF Health Morsani College of Medicine, said, "We tend to see more cases during the warmer months because this is when fresh produce consumption increases and many of the fruits and vegetables associated with Cyclospora are widely available. While most people won't become ill, it's important to recognize the symptoms and seek medical care if diarrhea is severe or persists."

Investigations by the Food and Drug Administration, CDC and state health officials have linked the outbreak to a California produce supplier, Taylor Farms, which voluntarily recalled certain iceberg lettuce products on July 17. The lettuce was distributed to retail stores, restaurants and food-service customers, including some Taco Bell locations. Although a later test on a separate sample was deemed a false positive, the agency said epidemiological evidence still points to the supplier as the likely source.

The CDC advises consumers to avoid foods associated with outbreaks, wash all produce thoroughly under running water, scrub firm items with a brush, and discard damaged portions. Because washing may not eliminate the parasite, cooking produce to at least 158 °F (70 °C) is recommended.