Topic overview
In brief
- Over 10,000 confirmed cases of cyclosporiasis have been reported in the US this year.
- The CDC is investigating several clusters, including a multistate outbreak linked to iceberg lettuce.
- Public health officials are urging vigilance and food safety practices to prevent further spread.
Summary
In the United States, a significant public health concern has emerged this year with the reporting of over 10,000 confirmed cases of cyclosporiasis, an intestinal illness caused by the parasite Cyclospora cayetanensis. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) released data indicating that from May 1 to August 3, 10,468 laboratory-confirmed cases were documented across 47 states. This alarming rise in cases has raised concerns among health officials and the general public alike, as the illness has reached nearly every state in the country.
The CDC has also noted that at least 517 patients have been hospitalized due to the illness, and tragically, two individuals have died as a result of complications from cyclosporiasis. The agency is currently reviewing an additional 12,255 cases that have not been laboratory-confirmed or require further investigation. Many of these reports are coming from Michigan, where health officials are looking into possible exposure outside the country.