Key takeaway:
- Cyclospora cases surge: The CDC has confirmed 1,645 U.S. cases since May 1 as part of the growing cyclosporiasis outbreak, with more than 5,100 additional cases under investigation across 34 states.
- Midwest outbreak expands: Michigan, Ohio, West Virginia and Kentucky are linked to a multistate outbreak, with contaminated salad greens under investigation as a possible source.
- Precautionary measures increase: Taco Bell temporarily removed select ingredients at some locations while officials continue investigating the outbreak’s source.
The United States has confirmed 1,645 domestically acquired cases linked to the cyclosporiasis outbreak since May 1, while more than 5,100 additional cases remain under investigation as the multistate outbreak expands across 34 states.
Health officials said Tuesday that confirmed infections have already exceeded last year’s total by more than six times, with investigations continuing into several outbreaks, including a large cluster centered in the Midwest.
CDC investigates growing multistate outbreak
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said confirmed cases have been reported in 34 states since May 1. More than 5,100 additional suspected cases are under investigation, bringing the total confirmed and potential cases to more than 7,000.
Federal investigators said at least 400 cases in Michigan, Ohio, West Virginia and Kentucky appear to be epidemiologically linked, suggesting a common source of infection. Multiple investigations remain active, including state-specific outbreaks and cases not yet connected to any cluster.
“This is much, much higher than what we’ve seen last year or the year before,” said Dr. Gwen Biggerstaff, deputy director of the CDC’s Division of Foodborne, Waterborne, and Environmental Diseases. She described the increase as “a very big shift” from previous seasons.
Cyclospora infections typically increase during the spring and summer. About one in every 11 confirmed patients has been hospitalized, according to CDC data. No deaths have been reported.
Michigan, ohio remain outbreak epicenters
Michigan and Ohio account for the largest concentration of cases. Michigan health officials reported more than 3,300 cases during the outbreak investigation and said they have interviewed more than 1,000 people to identify the source.
Preliminary findings suggest lettuce or other salad greens could be linked to the outbreak, although investigators said no single product, grower or supplier has been identified.
State officials said 44 people have been hospitalized in Michigan and at least 46 in Ohio.
People infected with Cyclospora may experience watery diarrhea, stomach cramps, and bloating that can last for weeks. The parasite is usually spread through contaminated food or water rather than direct person-to-person contact, according to the CDC.
Restaurants respond as source investigation continues
Taco Bell said Tuesday it has temporarily removed certain ingredients from menus at selected restaurants as a precaution while public health officials continue their investigation.
“Public health officials have not confirmed a link to Taco Bell or any specific ingredient, supplier, restaurant or retailer,” the company said in a statement. It added that the ingredient removals are voluntary and temporary and that it will continue to follow guidance from health authorities.
The CDC noted that previous U.S. cases of the cyclosporiasis outbreak have often been linked to fresh produce. A 2023 report from the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service highlighted that the country’s largest recorded cyclosporiasis outbreak involved about 1,500 cases associated with raspberries.
Health officials urged consumers and health care providers to remain alert for symptoms as investigators work to identify the contamination source. The CDC said additional updates will be released as more information becomes available.
Visit Healthcare 360 Magazine For The Most Recent Information.
