Thousands Infected in US Foodborne Cyclospora Outbreak Linked to Imported Lettuce

US health authorities are investigating one of the largest recent foodborne illness outbreaks after thousands contracted the intestinal parasite Cyclospora. Since early May, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have confirmed over 1,600 laboratory-verified cases and are examining more than 5,000 additional suspected infections, with actual numbers likely higher. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and CDC are focusing their investigation on chopped iceberg lettuce imported from Mexico, which has been linked to the outbreak. Some products have been recalled, but officials caution the investigation is ongoing and all sources of infection have not yet been definitively identified.

Cyclospora cayetanensis causes cyclosporiasis, an intestinal disease transmitted mainly through food or water contaminated with feces. Unlike many viruses, it rarely spreads directly between people. Symptoms typically appear about a week after exposure and include prolonged diarrhea, abdominal pain, nausea, loss of appetite, fatigue, and sometimes mild fever. Without proper treatment, the illness can last weeks or months.

Although no similar outbreak has been reported in Israel, public health experts stress the importance of food safety amid global agricultural imports. They recommend thorough washing of fruits and vegetables, maintaining kitchen hygiene, and purchasing produce from trusted sources to reduce the risk of foodborne infections.