Health Officials Link Cyclospora Outbreak to Lettuce in 15 States

U.S. health officials have reported a connection between cases of a parasitic disease and lettuce in 15 states. This year, cyclospora cases have been reported in at least 47 states. Researchers are investigating how many are linked to a common contaminated source.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) noted an increase in affected states from nine to 15. Arkansas, Iowa, Missouri, Nebraska, New Hampshire, and North Carolina joined the initial list, which included Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Michigan, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, and West Virginia.

Investigators first focused on lettuce served at Taco Bell. Federal officials later identified Taylor Farms as the lettuce supplier. The company has recalled iceberg lettuce grown in central Mexico due to the outbreak.

Dr. Juan Luis Marquez, medical director for the Washtenaw and Livingston county health departments in Michigan, explained challenges in investigating and containing cyclospora outbreaks. Factors include the delay between exposure and symptom onset, difficulty analyzing the parasite in laboratories, and the extensive work required to interview sick individuals and identify common exposures.

Marquez also mentioned resource constraints due to public health staffing cuts at federal, state, and local levels, impacting investigation capacities.

Cyclospora is a microscopic parasite causing diarrhea with frequent and sometimes explosive bowel movements, according to the CDC. Outbreaks often occur in late spring and summer. The parasite thrives in heat, infecting intestines and spreading through feces. This infection, known as cyclosporiasis, is less common than other foodborne illnesses such as salmonella and E. coli. Many cyclosporiasis cases are not linked to a specific food or source.

2019 was the worst year for infections in the U.S., with about 4,700 reported cases. This year has already surpassed that number. Michigan alone has reported over 12,000 cases, including two deaths. The national total, adding other states, exceeds 25,000 cases.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration is monitoring five separate cyclospora outbreaks ongoing. The outbreak in 15 states is the largest yet. No product links have been made for the other outbreaks, including one affecting 115 people.

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