Cyclospora Outbreak Grows to 9 States: CDC Reveals New Findings

More states have joined the Cyclospora outbreak. Find out why the CDC expanded its investigation.

The Cyclospora outbreak linked to shredded iceberg lettuce continues to grow, with the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) expanding the investigation from five to nine affected states. Federal health officials say nearly 2,000 confirmed illnesses have been reported as they work to identify the full extent of the outbreak. ()

Health officials are working alongside the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and state health departments to trace the source of the outbreak, which has been linked to shredded iceberg lettuce.

The outbreak was initially identified in five states but has since spread to include Illinois, Kansas, Oklahoma, and Pennsylvania, joining Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Ohio, and West Virginia.

According to the CDC, the investigation remains active, and additional illnesses could be identified as laboratory testing and case reporting continue.

Nearly 2,000 Confirmed Cases Linked to the Outbreak

As of the latest CDC update, 1,947 laboratory-confirmed cases have been linked to this outbreak. At least 98 people have been hospitalized, although no deaths have been reported.

Public health experts caution that the actual number of infections is likely much higher. Many people with mild symptoms never seek medical care, while others may recover before undergoing the specialized laboratory tests needed to detect the parasite. Because Cyclospora infections are often underdiagnosed, confirmed case counts typically represent only a portion of the total illnesses.

Iceberg Lettuce Emerges as the Primary Source

Traceback investigations linked the contaminated lettuce to products supplied through Taylor Farms de Mexico, which distributed shredded iceberg lettuce to food-service establishments in multiple states. Several patients reported eating meals containing shredded lettuce before becoming ill, including meals served at some Taco Bell restaurants.

Following the investigation, the supplier initiated a recall of affected lettuce products, and the processing facility in central Mexico temporarily suspended operations while authorities continued their review. Officials emphasize that the investigation is ongoing and are continuing to determine whether additional food products or suppliers may also be associated with the outbreak.

Understanding Cyclospora

Cyclospora is a microscopic parasite (Cyclospora cayetanensis) that infects the small intestine and causes an illness known as cyclosporiasis. Unlike many common foodborne bacteria, the parasite requires time outside the human body before it becomes infectious. As a result, direct person-to-person transmission is considered uncommon.

People become infected after consuming fresh produce or water contaminated with the parasite. Fresh vegetables and herbs that are eaten raw have historically been associated with Cyclospora outbreaks because the organism can survive on produce if contamination occurs before harvesting or during processing.

Cyclospora Symptoms May Last for Weeks

Symptoms generally appear about one week after exposure, although the incubation period can vary. The infection most commonly causes frequent watery diarrhea, stomach cramps, bloating, nausea, fatigue and low-grade fever.

Without appropriate antibiotic treatment, symptoms may continue for several weeks and can even return after temporarily improving. Individuals with weakened immune systems, older adults, and young children may be at greater risk of prolonged illness.

Why Cyclospora Outbreaks Are Difficult to Detect

Cyclospora outbreaks present unique challenges for investigators. Unlike bacterial food poisoning, symptoms often develop several days after exposure, making it difficult for patients to remember exactly what they ate.

Fresh produce also moves through complex distribution networks involving farms, processors, wholesalers, restaurants, and retailers. By the time illnesses are reported, contaminated products may already have been consumed or discarded, complicating traceback efforts.

Health officials say these factors can delay identification of a common source and contribute to outbreaks spreading across multiple states before they are recognized.

CDC Advises Consumers to Stay Alert

The CDC recommends seeking medical attention if persistent diarrhea develops after eating fresh produce, particularly if symptoms last more than a few days. Diagnosis requires specialized laboratory testing because Cyclospora is not routinely detected during standard stool examinations.

Consumers should also follow food safety practices such as washing fresh fruits and vegetables before consumption, although experts note that rinsing alone may not completely eliminate the parasite if contamination has already occurred.

Federal health officials continue working with state agencies and the FDA to identify additional illnesses, trace contaminated products, and prevent further spread of the outbreak. As the investigation continues, the number of affected states and confirmed cases may change as new reports are verified.

References:

1. Cyclospora Outbreak Linked to Iceberg Lettuce in 9 States – (https://www.cdc.gov/cyclosporiasis/outbreaks/07-26/index.html)

Source-Medindia