Cyclosporiasis Outbreak Spreads Across More Than Half of U.S. States, CDC Reports
A growing outbreak of cyclosporiasis, a parasitic illness that causes severe diarrhea and other gastrointestinal problems, has now been reported in 31 U.S. states, according to the latest update from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
In its July 10 outbreak update, the CDC confirmed that infections have been detected in Alaska, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Virginia, West Virginia, and Wisconsin.
Michigan Reports Sharp Rise in Cases
Michigan has emerged as one of the hardest-hit states. The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services reported on July 13 that the state had recorded 2,640 cases, including 44 hospitalizations. Just a few days earlier, the state had reported 1,251 cases, highlighting the rapid increase in infections.
Nationwide, the CDC said that 843 laboratory-confirmed cases had been reported as of July 9. Health officials are also reviewing more than 1,500 additional suspected cases, which are still undergoing laboratory analysis. State-level figures may include both confirmed and suspected infections.
Investigators Search for the Source
Federal and state health authorities are continuing efforts to determine the source of the outbreak. So far, officials have not identified a single food item or supplier responsible for the spread.
Health experts say tracing the source is particularly difficult because contaminated food products are often distributed across multiple regions before illnesses are detected.
Cyclosporiasis outbreaks occur almost every year in the United States. Previous outbreaks have been linked to contaminated fresh produce, including lettuce, raspberries, cilantro, and scallions.
Health Officials Issue Food Safety Advice
While the investigation continues, public health authorities are urging consumers to take extra precautions when handling fresh fruits and vegetables.
Recommended safety measures include:
A. Wash hands thoroughly before and after preparing fresh produce.
B. Rinse fruits and vegetables carefully under clean running water.
C. Remove bruised or damaged portions before eating.
D. Consider cooking produce, when appropriate, as heat can help reduce the risk of infection.
E. Food handlers should exercise extra caution when preparing raw salads and leafy vegetables.
Symptoms and Treatment
Cyclosporiasis is caused by the parasite Cyclospora cayetanensis. Common symptoms include:
1. Frequent watery diarrhea
2. Abdominal cramps or pain
3. Loss of appetite
4. Nausea
5. Fatigue
6.Weight loss
Diagnosis is typically confirmed through laboratory testing of stool samples. Most patients recover with appropriate treatment, and antibiotics are generally the recommended therapy.
Health officials advise anyone experiencing persistent diarrhea or other gastrointestinal symptoms—especially after consuming fresh produce—to seek medical attention promptly for evaluation and treatment.