Allegheny County records 35 cyclosporiasis cases, two hospitalized while investigation continues

The Allegheny County Health Department reported 35 confirmed cases of cyclosporiasis, with two patients requiring hospitalization. State health officials have identified several cases in Pennsylvania that may be part of a larger multistate outbreak linked to contaminated iceberg lettuce, but county officials said they are still waiting for federal and state confirmation on whether any local cases are connected.

The outbreak, which has been confirmed in nine states and is suspected in up to 41, has produced more than 4,100 laboratory-confirmed infections and an estimated 7,400 suspected cases since early May, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The CDC believes the lettuce originated from a Taylor Farms facility in central Mexico, and a recall has been issued, though case numbers are expected to rise because it can take up to six weeks to determine if an illness is part of the outbreak.

Cyclosporiasis is caused by ingesting food or water contaminated with the parasite Cyclospora. Symptoms typically appear within one to two weeks and include severe diarrhea, which can persist for days to weeks without treatment. The infection is generally not life-threatening and can be treated with antibiotics.

"The health department's recommendations to the public have not changed: Wash your hands. Practice consistent hand hygiene, thoroughly wash your produce, cook it whenever possible, and seek medical testing and appropriate treatment for prolonged diarrheal illness," a spokesperson for the Allegheny County Health Department said.