Maine reports ten cases of cyclosporiasis linked to recalled iceberg lettuce

The Maine Center for Disease Control has identified ten cases of cyclosporiasis associated with the ongoing multistate outbreak linked to contaminated iceberg lettuce. Federal health authorities have recorded more than 6,000 infections across the United States, with two deaths reported in Michigan among patients who had pre-existing health conditions.

Cyclospora parasites are spread through food or water contaminated with oocysts and infect the small intestine. The CDC notes that typical symptoms include watery, often explosive diarrhea, abdominal cramping, nausea, loss of appetite, weight loss, increased gas, and prolonged fatigue, while vomiting, low-grade fever, and body aches may also occur. Illness can persist from several days to a month or longer and may follow a relapsing pattern; complications, though rare, have included malabsorption, cholecystitis and reactive arthritis.

"The Maine CDC encourages people to reduce their risk by thoroughly washing fresh produce under clean running water before eating and by following safe food handling practices," the agency said, adding that even pre-washed items should be washed.

The CDC advises clinicians to test patients with severe or prolonged gastrointestinal symptoms for cyclosporiasis.