Health officials in the United States are grappling with a significant surge in cases of cyclosporiasis, a parasitic illness that can cause severe gastrointestinal distress. Michigan has been particularly hard-hit, reporting an unprecedented outbreak of almost 1,000 cases, a stark increase from its typical annual average of around 50. Ohio has also seen a sharp rise, with 177 cases reported as of early July.
The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) initially recorded 145 cases across 17 states by mid-June, including some hospitalisations, though the agency acknowledges this figure likely represents a substantial undercount due to reporting lags. The illness, caused by the microscopic parasite Cyclospora cayetanensis, is primarily known for triggering 'explosive,' watery diarrhoea, alongside other symptoms such as stomach cramps, nausea, fatigue, and loss of appetite.
Late last week, the CDC identified shredded iceberg lettuce from Mexico, served at Taco Bell locations in five US states, as a source of the widespread outbreak. Consumers in Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Ohio, and West Virginia have been warned against consuming this specific product. The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) traced the contamination to a single lettuce supplier, though the company's name has not been publicly disclosed in federal warnings.
Taco Bell has committed to ceasing the use of lettuce from the identified supplier. The FDA is actively investigating whether potentially contaminated lettuce from this supplier remains on the market, including in other states beyond those initially identified. While the current outbreak has led to hospitalisations, cyclosporiasis is generally not life-threatening, and crucially, no deaths have been linked to these recent cases.
For UK nationals travelling or residing in the affected US states, vigilance regarding food hygiene is paramount. The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) typically advises British travellers to exercise caution with food and water in many destinations globally, and while specific warnings for this outbreak have not been issued for the UK, general advice on avoiding foodborne illnesses remains relevant. Symptoms can appear anywhere from a week to several weeks after consuming contaminated food or water, and while rarely fatal, the illness can be prolonged and debilitating, sometimes lasting for months if left untreated.
Cyclosporiasis is typically contracted by consuming food or water contaminated with faeces containing the parasite. Fresh produce, particularly berries, leafy greens, and herbs, are common culprits in outbreaks. While cases are relatively rare in the UK, Public Health England (PHE) monitors for such infections, which are usually linked to international travel or imported produce. This US outbreak serves as a timely reminder for both consumers and food businesses globally about the importance of stringent food safety practices throughout the supply chain.