CDC probes reports of cyclosporiasis in US

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says investigations are ongoing to “identify potential clusters and potential sources” of 145 cases of cyclosporiasis reported to the organization in the U.S. from May 1 through June 16.

Cyclosporiasis, which infects the small intestine and causes frequent, watery and explosive diarrhea, is caused by several species of the microscopic parasite cyclospora. The parasite is spread by food or water contaminated with feces.

Previous outbreaks have occurred as a result of eating contaminated fresh produce.

The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) has reported 572 cases as of July 4, up from 170 on June 30. No specific produce grower/supplier or specific produce type has been identified as the source of the outbreak, according to the MDHHS website.

MDHHS issued recommendations for preparing, processing or serving raw produce:

•  lettuce/leafy greens: Buy whole heads of lettuce (rather than prewashed, bagged lettuce or salad mixes), throw away the outer two to three layers of leaves and wash the inner leaves under running water. For leafy greens that can be cooked, cooking is the safest option.
• cilantro, basil: Wash thoroughly under running water, separating the leaves. Safest when cooked.
• green onions: Trim the root end and remove the outer layer, wash thoroughly under running water. Safest when cooked.
• raspberries: Their bumpy surface makes them especially hard to clean. Safest when cooked (pies, jams etc.). Consider frozen raspberries as an alternative (freezing may reduce but does not guarantee elimination of the parasite).
• snow peas: Wash under running water and rub the surface. Safest when cooked.

Michigan is not included on a CDC map of reported cyclosporiasis locations, which shows case data reported directly to the center’s cyclospora surveillance program.

The CDC map identifies cases reported in 17 states as of June 16, with New York reporting 31-80 cases. Other included states reported between 11 to 30 and 1 to 10 cases.

Twenty people were hospitalized, according to the CDC, and no deaths have been reported.