Is Cyclospora Outbreak the Largest in History? How Different Years Compare
Summary
A Cyclospora outbreak linked to recalled iceberg lettuce from Mexico has caused at least 1,947 illnesses across nine U.S. states, making it one of the largest outbreaks recorded. Health officials expect the number of confirmed cases to rise as the investigation continues.Key Facts
- The outbreak is connected to iceberg lettuce sourced from central Mexico and recalled by Taylor Farms de Mexico.
- At least 1,947 people are infected, with 98 hospitalizations and no deaths reported as of July 24.
- The affected states include Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Michigan, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, and West Virginia.
- Cyclospora is a tiny parasite that infects the small intestine, usually spread by eating contaminated food or water, especially fresh produce.
- Symptoms start about one week after exposure and include diarrhea, stomach cramps, nausea, and fatigue; these can last weeks without treatment.
- The CDC and FDA are investigating, and the CDC has confirmed 4,173 lab-confirmed cases this season, with thousands more under review.
- Cyclosporiasis became better known in the 1990s after outbreaks linked to imported fruit like raspberries, leading to increased monitoring.
Read the Full Article
This is a fact-based summary from The Actual News. Click below to read the complete story directly from the original source.
