The U.S. is grappling with a widespread cyclospora outbreak, causing thousands to fall ill. Cases of cyclosporiasis, which are caused by cyclosporas parasite, have increased steadily since May 1, leading to numerous hospitalizations nationwide. No deaths have been reported so far.
According to a July 28 update from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), there have been 6,707 laboratory-confirmed cases in 45 states since May 1, including 423 hospitalizations. This is an increase of over 2,500 cases from the previous week’s update on July 21. Additionally, more than 11,500 suspected cases await confirmation or further investigation.
The largest outbreak has been linked to shredded lettuce from Taylor Farms. Initially, the outbreak was tied to lettuce at Taco Bell locations in Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Ohio, and West Virginia. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) later extended this connection to four more states: Illinois, Kansas, Oklahoma, and Pennsylvania.
To combat this, Taco Bell removed shredded iceberg lettuce supplied by Taylor Farms from its U.S. restaurants on July 17. On the same day, Taylor Farms expanded a voluntary recall of iceberg lettuce from central Mexico, which was distributed to 27 states. Federal health officials have indicated that other brands, restaurants, or retailers might also be implicated as investigations continue.
States Reporting Rising Cases
Michigan: The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services reported 10,773 cases, with 193 requiring hospitalization. Since July 27, 1,373 new cases have emerged.
Ohio: As of July 25, Ohio reported 4,013 cases, a significant rise from 2,576 cases reported on July 23.
North Carolina: The state reported 718 total cases, including 24 hospitalizations as of July 27. This includes 157 new cases and eight new hospitalizations since last week’s update.
Missouri: Missouri reported 593 cases by July 26, more than doubling the 216 cases observed a week earlier.
Florida: By July 25, Florida reported 254 cases, an increase from 158 cases noted on July 18.
Iowa: Iowa reported 226 confirmed cases this year, with 47 patients having traveled internationally. Fewer than 10 new infections appeared at the start of the week on July 26.
Virginia: Virginia documented 162 cases by July 23, with 66 domestically acquired cases in the previous week.
Understanding Cyclospora
Cyclospora is a microscopic parasite found in food exposed to human feces, often through contaminated water used for irrigation or washing. Ingestion can lead to intestinal illness, notably characterized by frequent and explosive bowel movements.
Unreported Cases
The CDC clarifies that official figures include only confirmed cases investigated via public health surveillance. Additionally, the CDC acknowledges over 11,500 cases pending confirmation or further analysis, such as determining travel history.
Real figures are likely higher because many people recover without seeking medical attention, remaining untested, and therefore not recorded.