CHILLICOTHE, Ohio — Local health officials are urging residents to take strict food safety precautions as a massive nationwide outbreak of Cyclosporiasis continues to spread across 17 states, with cases confirmed locally in Ross County [cite: The most recently confirmed Ross County case of Cyclosporiasis was identified one week ago., A cyclosporiasis outbreak has spread to 17 states, with the Food and Drug Administration reporting more than 9,400 infections across the United States and nearly 400 hospitalizations.].
According to the Ross County Health District, the most recent local case of the parasitic infection was identified one week ago. While local health officials continue to monitor the situation, federal agencies are battling a rapidly expanding national public health crisis [cite: We will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as new information becomes available., A cyclosporiasis outbreak has spread to 17 states, with the Food and Drug Administration reporting more than 9,400 infections across the United States and nearly 400 hospitalizations.].
Over 9,400 Infections Reported Nationwide
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) reports that the outbreak has infected more than 9,400 people across the United States and led to nearly 400 hospitalizations.
Since the FDA’s update on Aug. 5, Maine and Massachusetts have joined the list of affected states.
However, official numbers may drastically undercount the actual spread. Michigan health officials have reported nearly 14,000 cases alone—a total significantly higher than the federal CDC tracker displays due to varying state reporting criteria [cite: Michigan is the hardest-hit state, with the state’s health department reporting nearly 14,000 cases — a figure significantly higher than what appears on the CDC’s website., Some cases may not meet the CDC’s reporting criteria, which could reflect a similar gap in other states.]. Neighboring Wisconsin has reported between 50 and 199 cases.
Iceberg Lettuce Recall Issued
Federal investigators have traced a primary source of the outbreak to iceberg lettuce imported from Mexico by Taylor Farms, which has initiated a nationwide recall.
Taylor Farms stated it is conducting a comprehensive review of its safety protocols. However, the FDA cautioned that the recalled lettuce may not account for every case reported nationwide this year.
Symptoms and Prevention
Cyclosporiasis is a intestinal illness caused by the microscopic parasite Cyclospora cayetanensis. If left untreated, the parasite can cause weeks of severe gastrointestinal distress, including watery and explosive diarrhea.
Health experts and local officials recommend the following prevention practices:
- Wash Produce: Scrub fresh fruits and vegetables thoroughly under clean running water using a produce brush. Do not use soap or detergents on produce.
- Cook Thoroughly: Heat food to an internal temperature of at least 158°F to kill the parasite. While freezing can render the parasite inactive, experts warn it is not a guaranteed fix.
- Practice Hand Hygiene: Wash hands thoroughly with soap and warm water before and after handling raw food.
Residents with questions or concerns about Cyclosporiasis symptoms are advised to contact their healthcare provider or the Ross County Public Health Nursing Division at 740-775-1146.
