An ongoing Cyclospora outbreak has led to thousands falling ill nationwide. One affected patient told Newsweek that a different symptom impacted him significantly, not the explosive diarrhea typically linked with the illness.
Rising Cases Across the States
The outbreak is worsening, with state health departments recording a surge in cases. Michigan stands out as the state most affected. As of the latest reports, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has confirmed 1,645 cases across 34 states. There have been 141 hospitalizations, though no fatalities have occurred. Meanwhile, the CDC is currently evaluating an additional 5,100 cases potentially connected to the outbreak.
Potential Source: Shredded Iceberg Lettuce
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and CDC recently pinpointed shredded iceberg lettuce from Mexico, produced by Taylor Farms, as a possible source of the infection. The FDA has warned consumers against eating this lettuce from Taco Bell outlets in Michigan, Indiana, Ohio, Kentucky, and West Virginia. Taylor Farms informed that a recall is being prepared due to its possible link to the outbreak, according to Bloomberg News. Details of this recall have not been fully disclosed yet.
In a statement, Taco Bell maintained, “The health and safety of our guests is our top priority. Public health officials have not confirmed a link to Taco Bell or any specific ingredient, supplier, restaurant, or retailer.”
Firsthand Experience of Debilitating Symptoms
Chase Strangio, a civil rights lawyer with the ACLU, shared his experience with the illness. He became ill in May after consuming lettuce and cilantro at a work lunch in New York. Initially suffering from sudden gastrointestinal issues, he later developed a low-grade fever and diarrhea.
Suspecting a stomach virus, Strangio did not realize the true cause until learning others who shared the meal had similar symptoms. After a fellow attendee tested positive for Cyclospora, Strangio got tested. Two weeks after symptoms began, his test returned positive.
For Strangio, the persistent, severe stomach cramps were the most challenging symptom. He experienced a significant loss of appetite and fatigue as well, losing 7 pounds during the illness. Two intravenous treatments were necessary to restore his hydration levels. Though better now, he remains cautious with uncooked foods.
Understanding Cyclospora Symptoms
The CDC lists prolonged, watery diarrhea as a primary symptom of cyclosporiasis. However, infections can also lead to:
- Severe fatigue
- Loss of appetite and weight loss
- Intense stomach cramps and bloating
- Nausea and increased gas
Treatment Methods
Treating Cyclospora infection involves the antibiotic trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (TMP-SMX), branded as Bactrim or Septra. This is the only confirmed effective medication for cyclosporiasis, per the CDC. Supportive care and aggressive hydration are equally essential to manage dehydration from diarrhea.
Strangio noted improvements after using Bactrim, though some of his colleagues could not take the drug and remain unwell.
Origins of Cyclospora
The parasite Cyclospora cayetanensis, responsible for this illness, originates from human fecal contamination. Fresh produce easily carries the parasite, as it is resistant to regular washing; heat and cooking can destroy it.
Contamination occurs when human waste—via irrigation water, washing water, or during handling—contacts crops. Consumption of tainted produce, particularly raw greens, herbs, and fruits, spreads the infection.
Unlike some foodborne illnesses, Cyclospora is not commonly transmitted from person to person directly. Once shed in stool, it needs time to mature environmentally to become infectious.