A Cyclospora outbreak linked to shredded iceberg lettuce grown in central Mexico has expanded into four additional states, bringing the total number of affected states to nine, according to information confirmed by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.
Affected States
The newly affected states are Illinois, Kansas, Oklahoma, and Pennsylvania. They join Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Ohio, and West Virginia, where cases were previously identified.
The outbreak is tied to iceberg lettuce processed by Taylor Farms. The company has voluntarily recalled all iceberg lettuce sourced from its central Mexico supplier. Taylor Farms supplies produce to major grocery chains, including Walmart, Target, and Whole Foods, as well as fast-food chains like Taco Bell.
Cyclospora is a microscopic parasite transmitted through food or water contaminated with fecal matter. It causes cyclosporiasis, an infection that affects the digestive system and causes severe diarrhea, stomach cramps, and other gastrointestinal symptoms. Some cases require hospitalization.
Case Numbers
Federal public health records show thousands of cases reported nationwide this year, a significant increase over the typical annual range of 200 to 1,000 cases. According to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 4,173 lab-confirmed domestic cases of cyclosporiasis have been reported since May 1.
Original reporting: Tampa Free Press — read the source article.
