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New Cyclospora Outbreak: FDA Investigates 72 Cases
23 Jul
Summary
- FDA investigates 72 new cyclosporiasis cases from an unidentified source.
- Over 4,173 laboratory-confirmed cases reported in the U.S. since May.
- Taylor Farms recalled iceberg lettuce from central Mexico due to outbreak.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is actively investigating a new outbreak of cyclosporiasis, which has been linked to 72 cases thus far and an as-yet-unidentified source. This announcement comes as the number of reported cyclosporiasis cases across the U.S. Midwest continues to rise.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has confirmed 4,173 laboratory-confirmed domestic cases since May 1 and is examining over 7,400 additional reported infections. States like Michigan, with 7,171 cases this year, and Ohio have seen significant increases in infections.
Regulators have pointed to a Taylor Farms plant in Mexico as a potential source for the broader Midwest spread, which is considered the largest foodborne illness outbreak in the U.S. in recent years. Consequently, Taylor Farms recalled iceberg lettuce sourced from central Mexico on July 17.
However, Mexico's government has stated there is currently no evidence to suggest that its lettuce caused the U.S. outbreak. The outbreak has also impacted restaurant operators, with Yum Brands' shares seeing a decline after reports linked Taco Bell to the spread. Taco Bell has since discontinued the use of Taylor Farms lettuce.
