Cyclospora: Largest US Outbreak of Explosive Diarrhoea Parasite Is Over, Health Officials Say
Two people have died and 570 were hospitalised in recent months due to the outbreak of cyclospora, a microscopic parasite that can cause explosive diarrhoea. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) announced the end of this significant outbreak on Friday.
In an advisory notice, the CDC stated that cases had "significantly declined" and they are continuing to investigate the source of the infection. Initially affecting 21 states, officials linked the outbreak to lettuce imported from Mexico by Taylor Farms, a major supplier to many US food outlets. Taylor Farms subsequently issued a voluntary recall of lettuce sourced from central Mexico, and Taco Bell removed lettuce from this supplier from its menu.
Cyclospora causes cyclosporiasis, an intestinal illness spread through contaminated food or water. Symptoms include severe diarrhoea. Though deaths from cyclosporiasis are uncommon, the CDC notes that individuals with "significant underlying health conditions" may be more vulnerable.
According to CDC data, there have been nearly 20,000 confirmed cases since 1 May, resulting in over 1,000 hospitalisations across 49 states and DC. The true number of affected individuals is likely higher, as many cases go unreported. UK health officials have also issued warnings about the outbreak, following recent cases among returning travellers.
This latest outbreak surpasses the previous peak year for infections in 2019, when there were approximately 4,700 cases nationwide.
