CDC reports over 17,000 cyclosporiasis cases across 48 states
Federal health officials say confirmed infections with the diarrhea-causing parasite Cyclospora have risen to 17,180, with cases reported in 48 states and Washington, DC, while the overall trend is beginning to decline.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said on Aug. 24 that 17,180 laboratory-confirmed cyclosporiasis infections have been recorded in 48 states and Washington, DC since May 1, an increase of 1,464 from the previous weekly report. The agency noted that although the number of confirmed cases continues to grow, the weekly increase has slowed compared with earlier weeks that saw rises of 2,000 to 3,000 cases.
Two deaths and 922 hospitalizations have been linked to the outbreak, including 94 hospitalizations reported since the last update. New Mexico was added to the list of states with confirmed cases, leaving only Delaware and Hawaii without federally confirmed infections. Michigan and Ohio remain the states with the highest case counts.
The CDC’s count lags state reports by about six weeks because each infection must be verified and reported through a federal process. State health departments, such as Michigan’s, continue to publish more current numbers; Michigan reported 14,277 cases as of Aug. 20.
The largest cluster, centered in Michigan, has been traced to recalled iceberg lettuce grown in central Mexico and distributed by Taylor Farms. That lettuce-linked outbreak accounts for more than 10,000 cases and 454 hospitalizations across 17 states, and both reported deaths are associated with it. The Food and Drug Administration is monitoring at least six additional Cyclospora clusters that have not yet been linked to a source.
Cyclosporiasis, caused by the parasite Cyclospora cayetanensis, typically produces watery, sometimes “explosive,” diarrhea along with nausea, vomiting, abdominal cramps, fever and fatigue. While the illness is usually self-limiting, it can be severe for people with weakened immune systems.
Taylor Farms, whose product was recalled, denied allegations that it attempted to influence the FDA investigation or that political contributions affected regulatory actions. The company said it removed all potentially implicated lettuce from the market and suspended sourcing from central Mexico, emphasizing confidence in its food-safety systems.
Public health officials continue to advise consumers to follow standard food-handling practices and to stay informed about recalls as investigations proceed.