Cyclospora Outbreak Reported Across 31 States, CDC Says
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has confirmed a multistate outbreak of cyclosporiasis, an intestinal illness caused by the microscopic parasite cyclospora. As of July 9, the agency reported 843 confirmed cases in 31 states, including 86 hospitalizations. Another 1,500 cases remain under investigation.
Cyclosporiasis is typically linked to food or water contaminated with human feces during growing, harvesting, or processing. The source of the current outbreak has not been identified, and no product recalls have been announced. Previous outbreaks have been associated with fresh produce, including raspberries, basil, cilantro, snow peas, green onions, mesclun lettuce, and bagged salads.
Some local reports said certain Taco Bell restaurants had paused service of selected items as a precaution. Chipotle told Business Insider that it was aware of the investigation but did not believe its sourced ingredients were connected. Several other major restaurant chains and the National Restaurant Association did not immediately respond to requests for comment.
While investigators work to identify the source, health officials and food safety experts advise consumers to consider limiting foods previously linked to cyclospora, particularly raw lettuce, herbs, green onions, berries, snow peas, and pre-prepared salads. Washing produce remains recommended, along with cleaning cutting boards and utensils and washing hands before and after handling fresh foods. However, cyclospora can be difficult to remove through rinsing alone. Cooking produce to an internal temperature of at least 158 degrees Fahrenheit can kill the parasite.
Symptoms usually appear about a week after exposure and often include watery diarrhea, sometimes frequent or explosive. Other symptoms may include loss of appetite, weight loss, cramps, bloating, nausea, fatigue, vomiting, body aches, headaches, and low-grade fever.
Experts note the actual number of infections may be higher because many people recover at home or are not tested. Severe cases can be treated with antibiotics.