Cyclospora Outbreak in the U.S.: Symptoms, Causes, and Response

The ongoing Cyclospora outbreak in the United States has affected thousands. The CDC reports 1,645 confirmed cases across 34 states, including 141 hospitalizations with no fatalities. Over 5,100 additional cases are under review. Michigan faces the brunt of the outbreak.

Potential Source Identified

The FDA and CDC announced that shredded iceberg lettuce from Mexico, produced by Taylor Farms, might be linked to the outbreak. Consumers are advised not to consume this lettuce from Taco Bell outlets in Michigan, Indiana, Ohio, Kentucky, and West Virginia. Taylor Farms is preparing a recall, though details remain undisclosed.

The health and safety of our guests is our top priority. Public health officials have not confirmed a link to Taco Bell or any specific ingredient…

– Taco Bell Corp’s statement to Newsweek

Patient Experiences Severe Symptoms

Chase Strangio, an ACLU civil rights lawyer, shared his ordeal. After eating lettuce and cilantro at a work lunch, he suffered gastrointestinal issues and a low-grade fever. Initially suspecting a stomach virus, he learned others who ate the same were also ill. Despite recovering, Strangio expressed ongoing anxiety about consuming uncooked food.

Symptoms of Cyclospora

According to the CDC, the primary symptom is watery diarrhea. Other symptoms include:

• Severe fatigue
• Loss of appetite
• Weight loss
• Intense stomach cramps
• Bloating
• Nausea
• Increased gas

Treatment

The antibiotic trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (Bactrim or Septra) is the recommended treatment. Aggressive hydration manages dehydration from diarrhea. Strangio improved after taking Bactrim, though some colleagues remained sick due to inability to take the medication.

Source of Cyclospora

Cyclospora originates from the parasite Cyclospora cayetanensis, linked to contaminated food or water. It can survive on produce but is inactivated by heat. Contaminated crops or water sources often spread the parasite. Fresh produce like leafy greens and herbs pose risks but typically require time to become infectious after exposure, rather than direct person-to-person transmission.