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Cyclosporiasis Outbreak Grows in the U.S.

3 weeks ago 0

Thousands across the United States are grappling with an outbreak of cyclosporiasis, linked to food and water contaminated with the cyclospora parasite.

Potential Source Identified

Michigan health officials suggest lettuce or salad greens could be the outbreak’s origin. While named as possible sources, they have not confirmed specific growers or suppliers.

Significant Increase in Cases

As of Monday evening, Michigan reported 2,640 cases and 44 hospitalizations. This marks a 69 percent rise from Friday’s figures, setting a record for the state, which usually sees 40 to 50 cases annually. Other states, including New York, Ohio, Illinois, Indiana, and Kentucky, are also experiencing higher-than-average case numbers.

Broader Impact Across the U.S.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) report at least 843 confirmed cases and 86 hospitalizations across 31 states. This year’s numbers, confirmed by The New York Times to be at least 4,800 cases nationwide, suggest a significant increase compared to the average 2,800 cases per year since 2016.

CDC figures might still underestimate the true impact as states take time to report, and the agency confirms these cases. Epidemiologist Caitlin Rivers from Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health indicates that this year could see the highest number of cyclosporiasis cases in U.S. history.

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