Live updates on cases, source, impacted foods
Health officials are investigating a nationwide surge of over 1,600 confirmed cases of cyclosporiasis, a parasitic infection causing severe gastrointestinal distress. While a cluster of cases in four states is linked, the specific food source remains unidentified.
Why it matters
The outbreak poses a significant public health challenge, requiring urgent identification of contaminated food sources to prevent further spread.
State and federal health officials have confirmed 1,645 cases of cyclosporiasis , and the cause of the stomach-churning parasitic infection spiking across the country remains under investigation.
More than 5,100 additional cases are also being investigated, according to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Confirmed or suspected cases have been reported in 34 states.
CDC officials said a cluster of cases in four states − Kentucky, Michigan, Ohio and West Virginia − are likely linked , but officials are still trying to determine whether a food or produce item is the source of the surge.
Cyclosporiasis, or the disease caused by the parasite Cyclospora cayetanensis , can cause frequent, watery diarrhea or explosive bowel movements, nausea, cramps, bloating and low-grade fever.
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