The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has announced the end of a multistate Cyclospora outbreak linked to iceberg lettuce. The outbreak affected 12,883 individuals across 21 states, resulting in 570 hospitalizations and two fatalities.
The outbreak, one of the largest in US history, was traced to processed iceberg lettuce supplied by Taylor Farms de Mexico. This prompted the company to recall all iceberg lettuce sourced from central Mexico on July 17. As of the CDC’s final update on September 11, the lettuce implicated is no longer available in stores or restaurants. “At this time, there is no risk of people getting sick with cyclosporiasis from this source,” stated the CDC.
The Broader Cyclospora Cayetanensis Issue
The recorded cases represent a portion of a broader increase in infections caused by Cyclospora cayetanensis, a microscopic parasite responsible for cyclosporiasis. Since May 1, there have been 19,595 confirmed cases in 49 states and Washington, D.C., including 1,043 hospitalizations and two deaths.
The CDC’s latest data indicates the states where affected individuals resided. However, these figures do not necessarily correlate with where they encountered the parasite. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) continues to investigate the cause of contamination. Additionally, other clusters of cyclosporiasis and various pathogen-related outbreaks, such as Salmonella, E. coli, and Listeria, are under investigation.
Understanding the Cyclospora Outbreak Cause
Interviews and supply-chain analysis established the link to iceberg lettuce, even though testing on recalled produce did not confirm positive results. The investigation began with cases related to Taco Bell restaurant visits. In Michigan, a study of 190 diners, 90% reported consuming iceberg lettuce. The FDA traced this supply to a specific company.
An initial positive lettuce sample was later re-evaluated as a false positive. On July 19, the FDA confirmed no positive results from its tests. Investigators have yet to determine exactly how the lettuce became contaminated, considering factors like contaminated water or processing mishaps. The Cyclospora parasite typically spreads through contaminated food or water. It requires one to two weeks outside the body to become infectious, making person-to-person transmission unlikely.
Inspections and sampling at growing and processing locations in Mexico were carried out by the FDA with Mexican authorities. This investigation continues, though the CDC has concluded its outbreak response.
Current Foodborne Outbreak Investigations
As of September 12, the FDA reported eight active foodborne outbreaks involving other pathogens:
- Salmonella Bovismorbificans: Linked to broccoli sprouts, affecting 22 individuals with two hospitalizations. Evergreen Fresh Sprouts recalled related products.
- Salmonella Newport: Source unknown. With 109 cases, traceback work is ongoing.
- Shiga toxin-producing E. coli and Salmonella Agona: Linked to sprouts, sickening 55 people across 15 states, with four hospitalized. Alfalfa sprouts from Everything Sprouts identified as a source but not the sole cause. Some sprout products have been recalled.
- Salmonella I 4,[5],12:i:-: With 43 cases, the source remains unknown. Investigations continue.
- Salmonella Javiana: Linked to jalapeño peppers from Sinaloa, Mexico, with 431 illnesses reported. Recalls have been initiated.
- Listeria monocytogenes: Nine cases recorded. Investigators have yet to identify the source.
- Salmonella Oranienburg: Linked to 99 cases. Investigations persist.
- E. coli O145:H28: Linked to frozen blueberries. Infected 17 individuals in Florida and Georgia, with six hospitalizations. Recalls include specific frozen berry products from GreenWise and Great Value Organic Triple Berry Blend sold at Walmart. Consumers are advised to check their freezers for products with 2028 best-by dates.
For further details, contact the Newsweek editor handling this story, Edward Pearcey.