HERSHEY, Pennsylvania — Health officials are continuing to monitor a growing outbreak of cyclospora, a parasite that causes diarrheal illness, as confirmed cases increase across the United States. While the latest numbers are centered in Florida, the outbreak has drawn nationwide attention following a recall of lettuce products distributed to multiple states, including Pennsylvania.
Florida’s Department of Health has now reported 154 confirmed cyclospora infections and four additional suspected cases, making it one of the states closely tracking the spread of the parasite this summer.
Miami-Dade Reports the Highest Number of Cases
Among Florida counties, Miami-Dade County has recorded the highest number of confirmed infections with 33 cases. Broward County has reported 13 confirmed cases, while Monroe County has confirmed one infection.
State health officials said 98 of the confirmed infections were acquired within Florida, while the remaining cases were linked to travel elsewhere in the United States or internationally. Investigators continue working to determine potential exposure sources for affected patients.
Cyclospora infections are known to increase during warmer months and are commonly linked to contaminated fresh produce.
Lettuce Recall Expands During Multistate Outbreak
The latest health update comes shortly after Taylor Farms expanded a voluntary recall of iceberg lettuce products sourced from central Mexico because of a possible connection to the ongoing multistate cyclospora outbreak.
According to the company, the recalled lettuce products were distributed to 27 states, including Florida, Pennsylvania, Texas, Illinois, and New Jersey. The recall affects 25 shredded lettuce and salad mix products sold under eight different brand codes.
The company said the recalled products were shipped as recently as July 16 and carry “best by” dates through Aug. 3.
Although Taylor Farms announced the recall, the company did not provide the full list of brand names or retailers carrying the affected products after an inquiry.
What Is Cyclospora?
Cyclospora is a microscopic parasite that infects the intestines and can cause an illness known as cyclosporiasis. People typically become infected after consuming food or water contaminated with the parasite.
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Common symptoms include:
- Watery diarrhea
- Loss of appetite
- Stomach cramps
- Nausea
- Fatigue
- Weight loss
Symptoms may appear about a week after exposure and can last for several days or even weeks if left untreated. While healthy individuals often recover with appropriate treatment, the illness can be especially challenging for young children, older adults, and people with weakened immune systems.
Health Officials Urge Precautions
As investigators continue tracking the outbreak, health officials are encouraging residents to take simple food safety precautions to reduce the risk of infection.
Experts recommend washing hands thoroughly before preparing or eating food and rinsing fresh fruits and vegetables carefully before consumption. Consumers who recently purchased shredded lettuce or salad mixes should also check whether their products are included in the expanded recall and avoid eating any affected items.
Officials continue monitoring new reports as the investigation into the multistate outbreak remains ongoing.
Have you changed your grocery shopping or food preparation habits because of recent produce recalls? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
