The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported on Tuesday that 1,645 confirmed cases of cyclosporiasis have been detected across 34 states. The gastrointestinal illness is caused by the Cyclospora parasite, which is typically contracted through the consumption of contaminated food or water. While federal authorities have confirmed over 1,600 cases, state data suggests higher figures; Michigan alone has reported 3,309 cases.
As of Thursday, the outbreak has resulted in 141 hospitalizations and no deaths. Health officials noted that the parasite does not spread through person-to-person contact. The current surge is significantly higher than the 249 cases reported during the same period last year. Investigators are currently monitoring several clusters, including a multistate group involving Kentucky, Michigan, Ohio, and West Virginia.
A specific source for the outbreak has not yet been identified. The CDC and Food and Drug Administration (FDA) stated that previous outbreaks have been linked to fresh produce such as raspberries, basil, cilantro, snow peas, and lettuce. The CDC is urging medical providers to specifically request stool sample testing for the parasite, noting that symptoms typically include diarrhea, fatigue, and nausea.