Massachusetts reports 147 cyclosporiasis cases amid nationwide increase

The Massachusetts Department of Public Health said 147 residents have been diagnosed with cyclosporiasis, a parasitic infection that can cause diarrhea when contaminated food or water is consumed. Epidemiologists have identified several small clusters, some with possible connections to lettuce, but they found no evidence of a large outbreak or local sources of contaminated produce.

The increase mirrors a national trend, with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reporting more than 22,000 cases across 47 states. Federal officials have linked the Midwest surge to shredded iceberg lettuce supplied by Taylor Farms, which was recalled after potential Cyclospora contamination and was served at some Taco Bell locations in several states.

Cyclosporiasis typically rises during the spring and summer, but this year’s counts are unusually high. In other regions, such as North Carolina, health authorities noted that many patients reported consuming parsley and cilantro.

"The data suggest a widespread issue with certain fresh produce items, and we are working with federal partners to investigate and mitigate the risk," a spokesperson for the Massachusetts Department of Public Health said.