More than 18,000 cyclosporiasis cases reported across 45 states, CDC data shows
Cases of cyclosporiasis, an intestinal disease caused by a parasite, have surpassed 18,000 in 45 states, according to updated data. data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) on Wednesday.
The CDC noted that at least 6,707 cases have been laboratory confirmed since May 1, including 423 who have been hospitalized.
Additionally, the agency said it was “aware” of more than 11,500 additional cases that were not laboratory confirmed or did not require further investigation and analysis. Most of these additional cases were reported by Michigan and Ohio, which attributed the majority of their cases to the now-recalled iceberg lettuce.
The CDC notes that this parasite generally increases during the summer months, so other states may experience cases from other sources.
As cyclosporiasis spreads to the United States, what is done to investigate the disease outbreak?
Health officials have previously said the rise in cases may reflect delays in reporting rather than a new wave of infections.
The CDC said it can take up to six weeks to decide whether a sick person should be included in the agency’s tally.
CDC – PHOTO: Cyclospora cayetanensis is a single-celled parasite that causes an intestinal infection called cyclosporiasis.
Additionally, the average time between infection and the appearance of symptoms is one week, but this period can also be longer. up to two weeks or longerAccording to HKM. This means that diagnosis and reporting may take some time to complete.
Data shows that the ages of those infected ranged from 1 to 98 years old. No deaths were reported.
If health officials connected Some of these cases stemmed from shredded iceberg lettuce served at some Taco Bell restaurants in nine states, but there may be other potential sources, the agency said — something authorities continue to investigate.
The lettuce at Taco Bell is supplied by Taylor Farms and sourced from central Mexico. Earlier this month, Taylor Farms de Mexico released a release. voluntary recall With the recall affecting 27 states, the majority of all iceberg lettuce comes from central Mexico.
The recalled products were distributed from June 29 to July 16 and had expiration dates through August 3.
Additionally, Taco Bell said: I no longer use lettuce from Taylor Farms de Mexico at any of their restaurants.
ABC News’ Mary Kekatos contributed to this report.
