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Nearly 7,000 cases of cyclosporiasis suspected nationwide, CDC says
NBC News • • general
Key Points:
- Nearly 7,000 people nationwide may have cyclosporiasis, a foodborne illness causing severe diarrhea, with Michigan reporting the highest number of confirmed cases at 3,309.
- The CDC has confirmed 1,645 cases nationwide, with an additional 5,100 under investigation across at least 34 states; 141 hospitalizations have occurred but no deaths.
- Michigan health officials suspect lettuce or salad greens as potential sources based on over 1,000 interviews, though no specific supplier or distributor has been identified.
- Taco Bell has temporarily removed some ingredients at select locations as a precaution, but no direct link to the chain or any other food source has been confirmed.
- Cyclosporiasis is caused by a parasite that is difficult to wash off produce, with symptoms including severe diarrhea and flu-like signs, and is treated with the antibiotic Bactrim.
