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Parasite Outbreak: 72 Ill From Cyclospora
23 Jul
Summary
- Federal officials are investigating a new outbreak of the cyclospora parasite.
- As of Wednesday, 72 people have been affected by the illnesses.
- The parasite infects food, typically produce, through contaminated water.
Federal health authorities are currently investigating a new outbreak caused by the microscopic parasite known as Cyclospora. This investigation is ongoing, with 72 reported cases as of Wednesday. Officials have not yet pinpointed the specific food products or the locations associated with these illnesses.
This new outbreak is distinct from a previously reported multistate incident linked to lettuce from Taylor Farms, which was grown in central Mexico. Cyclospora is an intestinal parasite that contaminates food, particularly produce, when it comes into contact with human feces, often through the use of contaminated water for irrigation or washing.
Ingesting the parasite leads to intestinal illness characterized by frequent and severe bowel movements, as noted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Federal and state health agencies are also looking into other separate clusters of Cyclospora infections. Simple food safety practices, such as thorough handwashing with soap and water, are highly effective in preventing the spread of this parasite.
