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New Parasite Outbreak Sickens 72
23 Jul
Summary
- Federal officials are investigating a new outbreak of the cyclospora parasite.
- Currently, 72 individuals have been confirmed to be affected by the illness.
- The source of the outbreak has not yet been identified by health agencies.
Federal health authorities are actively investigating a new outbreak involving the parasite cyclospora, responsible for causing intestinal illness. As of Wednesday, the number of reported cases has reached 72. Officials have not yet determined the specific food products contaminated with the parasite, nor have they disclosed the locations where the illnesses have occurred.
This ongoing investigation is distinct from a previously identified multistate outbreak. In that separate incident, federal officials were focusing on lettuce supplied by Taylor Farms, which had issued a recall for iceberg lettuce grown in central Mexico. Cyclospora is a microscopic parasite transmitted through food or water contaminated with human feces.
To prevent infection, health authorities recommend diligent handwashing with soap and water, especially after using the bathroom and before preparing food. They note that alcohol-based hand sanitizers do not eliminate cyclospora, highlighting the effectiveness of traditional soap and water hygiene practices.
