Health officials seek source of rising cyclosporiasis cases as consumers turn to social media for guidance

Consumers are seeking advice on social media as a nationwide outbreak of cyclosporiasis, a diarrheal illness caused by the Cyclospora parasite, continues to grow without a confirmed source. Public health officials say the lack of specific information makes it difficult to issue targeted warnings, leaving the public to rely on broad precautions.

"This isn't a problem consumers can solve," said Dr. Céline Gounder, a medical correspondent. She added that guidance is similar to advice given to travelers in developing regions: avoid uncooked fresh produce that cannot be peeled.

Michigan health officials, which have recorded about 2,600 cases, indicated that lettuce or salad greens may be involved but did not name any producer or retailer. The agency recommended purchasing whole heads of lettuce rather than pre-washed bags.

Taco Bell announced it has temporarily removed limited ingredients at select locations as a precaution, though no link to the outbreak has been confirmed by health authorities.

Experts noted that reduced staffing and changes to disease surveillance at the CDC have hampered rapid source identification. Dr. Omer Awan said reporting of cyclospora cases has become optional, limiting the ability to trace outbreaks.

In the absence of a recall, health professionals advise standard food-safety practices: thorough handwashing, rinsing produce, and cooking foods to at least 70 °C (158 °F) to destroy the parasite. Dr. Nuwan Gunawardhana suggested that cooking is the most reliable way to prevent infection, while Dr. Jessica Justman emphasized washing hands before handling food.