Cyclosporiasis cases approach 7,000 nationwide as investigations widen

CDC data indicate nearly 7,000 Americans may be sick with cyclosporiasis, led by Michigan with 3,309 cases; 1,645 have been confirmed nationally and about 5,100 are under investigation across at least 34 states, with 141 hospitalizations and no deaths. Investigators have not identified a single source; lettuce or salad greens are a leading suspect based on interviews, and the FDA has opened an investigation while Taco Bell voluntarily removed limited ingredients as a precaution. Cyclosporiasis is a parasite- caused, foodborne illness that causes weeks of diarrhea and is typically treated with the antibiotic Bactrim; prevention focuses on proper handling of produce, as contamination often occurs where produce is grown or processed.