US Officials Declare End to Record Cyclospora Outbreak Linked to Imported Lettuce

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) announced on Friday that the largest recorded outbreak of cyclosporiasis in the United States has ended. The outbreak of the microscopic parasite, which causes an intestinal illness known for causing explosive diarrhoea, affected more than 12,000 people across 21 states. The infection resulted in 570 hospitalisations and two deaths. Health officials in Michigan noted that the two deceased individuals had significant underlying health conditions that may have been impacted by the parasite and dehydration.

Federal investigators linked the outbreak to lettuce from central Mexico sourced by Taylor Farms. In response, Taylor Farms issued a voluntary recall of the lettuce, and the fast food chain Taco Bell removed the supplier's lettuce from its menu. While the outbreak is declared over, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the CDC continue to investigate how the parasite entered the food supply. Since May 1, nearly 20,000 laboratory confirmed cases of cyclosporiasis have been reported across 49 states and DC, though the CDC suggests the actual number of sick people is likely higher.

Reports on the event vary in focus. Center lean outlets focused on the medical nature of the parasite and the public health warnings issued to travellers. The center right lean outlet emphasized the economic impact, noting that the outbreak rattled consumer confidence and hurt foot traffic at restaurants such as Chipotle and Sweetgreen.