FDA launches investigation into new cyclospora outbreak with unknown source
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has opened a traceback investigation into a recent cyclospora outbreak, though the contaminated product has not yet been identified.
Federal health officials announced Thursday that a new outbreak of the cyclospora parasite has been detected, but the specific food or product responsible remains unidentified. The FDA said it has started a traceback effort, a process that follows the distribution chain of a suspected contaminated item to pinpoint the source.
"This is an active investigation," an FDA spokesperson told CBS News. "We will provide updates as they become available."
The agency has previously investigated several cyclospora incidents, including a large outbreak linked to iceberg lettuce from Taylor Farms that prompted a voluntary recall of lettuce sourced from central Mexico. Another separate outbreak has produced at least ten confirmed cases, while a third investigation has concluded but remains under review.
Cyclospora is a microscopic parasite that can cause cyclosporiasis, a gastrointestinal illness characterized by severe diarrhea. Cooking destroys the parasite, but washing produce alone may not be sufficient.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported 1,645 confirmed cyclosporiasis cases nationwide since May 1, with 141 hospitalizations, and noted that more than 5,100 cases are pending further analysis. State health departments have reported higher numbers; Michigan officials cited 7,664 confirmed cases in the state.
"Because cyclosporiasis is often underdiagnosed and underreported, the true number of illnesses is likely higher than what has been reported," the CDC said.