CDC reports more than 6,700 confirmed Cyclospora cases, investigates 11,500 more
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has received reports of 6,707 laboratory-confirmed cases of cyclosporiasis in the United States and is investigating more than 11,500 additional cases.
The figures released Wednesday cover domestic cases reported since May 1 in 45 states. The number of confirmed cases has increased by 2,534 from the 4,173 reported a week ago.
The 11,500 additional cases have not been confirmed or require further investigation, including determining whether patients recently traveled outside the United States. Many were reported in Michigan and Ohio.
Michigan health officials independently reported 10,077 cases, including 160 patients who were hospitalized. The state’s total includes confirmed and suspected cases reported during the outbreak investigation.
Health officials have identified lettuce or salad greens as a potential source of the outbreak, but other foods have not been ruled out. No specific type of produce, grower or supplier has been conclusively identified.
Taylor Farms voluntarily recalled iceberg lettuce grown in central Mexico on July 17 after it was identified as a potential source. The company said the recall was completed and no products sold under the Taylor Farms brand were included.
Cyclosporiasis can cause watery diarrhea, fatigue and loss of appetite, with symptoms usually beginning about a week after infection. Routine stool tests do not always screen for the parasite, so patients may need to specifically request testing.
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Ella Rae Greene, Editor In Chief
