Federal Health Authorities Monitor Multi-State Parasitic Surge
Federal health authorities are currently investigating a widespread surge in cases of cyclosporiasis, a gastrointestinal illness caused by the parasite *Cyclospora*. While reports indicate that 843 cases have been identified nationwide, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) warns that the true number of infections is likely significantly higher.
The illness, which triggers symptoms including diarrhea, nausea, and fatigue, has been detected across 31 states. As of Thursday, the CDC reported 86 hospitalizations nationwide, with no deaths linked to the current outbreak. Health officials note that the total count of infections is expected to grow, citing an estimated six-week lag between the initial onset of illness and the time reports reach federal authorities.
The Challenge of Identifying a Source
Despite ongoing investigations, the specific source of the current surge remains unclear. Federal and local health officials are conducting interviews with patients to determine what they consumed, but the process is complicated by the nature of the parasite. Symptoms can appear anywhere from two days to two weeks after exposure, making it difficult for individuals to recall specific food items eaten during the infection period.
The CDC and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) are actively conducting traceback investigations for several clusters of cases. Past outbreaks of cyclosporiasis in the United States have been historically linked to fresh produce, including raspberries, basil, cilantro, snow peas, and lettuce.
However, investigators face technical hurdles in identifying a definitive link. Unlike other pathogens, *Cyclospora* is difficult to extract from stool samples and cannot be grown in a laboratory for comparative testing. Furthermore, because the parasite requires one to two weeks outside the human body to become infectious, person-to-person transmission is considered unlikely, pointing investigators toward contaminated food or water supplies.
For more on this story, see CDC Warns of Cyclosporiasis Outbreak Affecting 31 States Hospitalizing 86.
Regional Impacts and Case Disparities
The impact of the outbreak varies significantly by region. Michigan has experienced a substantial increase in reports, with state data showing 1,562 cases recorded as of Friday. Dr. Natasha Bagdasarian, the chief medical executive for Michigan, described the case numbers as a “moving target,” noting that the state typically sees about 50 cases annually.
In Ohio, health officials reported 177 cases as of July 2, with the majority occurring throughout June. Dr. Bruce Vanderhoff, director of the Ohio Department of Health, emphasized the severity of the illness, noting that it can cause significant dehydration and often requires emergency medical attention.
While 31 states have reported cases, officials note that the majority of states are reporting fewer than 10 cases, which remains within the expected range for spring and summer months. The CDC stated that infections have been identified in individuals ranging from 5 to 88 years old.
This follows our earlier report, Cyclosporiasis Outbreak Spreads to 31 States, Hospitalizing 86.
Practical Safety and Prevention Measures
Public health officials emphasize that the most reliable method to eliminate the *Cyclospora* parasite is to cook produce thoroughly. For those consuming fresh produce, officials recommend the following precautions:
- Washing Produce: Thoroughly rinse all fresh produce and herbs, though health experts caution that this may not eliminate all risk as the parasite can be difficult to remove.
- Hand Hygiene: Observe standard food safety practices, including washing hands with soap and water before and after handling fresh produce.
- Medical Attention: Individuals experiencing severe diarrhea or signs of dehydration are encouraged to consult a medical professional.
Cyclosporiasis is typically treated with antibiotics. Because the investigation into the current surge is ongoing, officials continue to issue guidance to the public, restaurants, and commercial kitchens regarding safe produce handling. While the source remains unidentified, investigators are working to determine if the cases across the country are connected or the result of multiple, smaller contamination events.
Read also: US States With the Highest Rates of Diarrheal Parasites.
Find more reporting in our Health section.
Keep reading
