CYCLOSPORIASIS OUTBREAK LINKED TO SHREDDED LETTUCE EXPANDS TO 15 STATES
Health officials have expanded a multistate Cyclospora outbreak linked to recalled shredded iceberg lettuce to 15 states, as investigations continue into one of the largest foodborne illness outbreaks of its kind in recent years.
The US Food and Drug Administration and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said six additional states have now been added to the outbreak investigation. The recalled lettuce, supplied by Taylor Farms de Mexico, has been linked to illnesses reported across multiple regions of the United States, with officials continuing to monitor new cases.
The affected shredded iceberg lettuce was distributed to restaurants and food service businesses before being recalled. Officials believe the contaminated products are no longer widely available because they are past their use by dates, but consumers and businesses are still being urged not to eat or serve any recalled products that may remain in storage.
Cyclospora is a microscopic parasite that causes cyclosporiasis, an intestinal illness that commonly leads to prolonged watery diarrhoea, stomach cramps, nausea, fatigue, loss of appetite and weight loss. Symptoms usually appear between two days and two weeks after consuming contaminated food, and some infections can last for several weeks without appropriate treatment.
Health authorities have advised anyone who develops persistent gastrointestinal symptoms after eating shredded iceberg lettuce in recent weeks to seek medical advice. The illness can usually be treated with prescription antibiotics, although recovery may take longer if treatment is delayed. Older adults, young children and people with weakened immune systems may be at greater risk of developing more serious complications.
The investigation remains ongoing as officials continue tracing the distribution of the recalled lettuce and identifying additional cases linked to the outbreak. While the contaminated products are believed to have largely left the food supply, authorities say the total number of reported illnesses could continue to rise because of the time between exposure, the onset of symptoms and laboratory confirmation.
Food safety experts continue to encourage consumers to stay informed about product recalls and follow official public health guidance rather than avoiding all leafy greens. Authorities say prompt reporting of symptoms and adherence to recall notices remain the most effective ways to reduce the impact of the outbreak while the investigation continues.
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