Mystery Cyclospora Outbreak Baffles U.S. Health Officials

Public health officials still can’t pinpoint the source of a cyclospora (cyclosporiasis) outbreak that has infected nearly 7,000 people across 34 states, with Michigan hardest hit. Tracing is difficult due to the parasite’s 1–2 week incubation and the need to test large quantities of produce, suggesting multiple contamination points in the food supply. Funding and staffing cuts at federal health programs like FoodNet have hampered data collection, complicating the search as states interview patients to identify common foods and origins.