Cyclosporiasis update: CDC says parasite outbreak just spread to 4 new states. Full list of where to skip the lettuce

A worrying expansion of the cyclosporiasis outbreak has been reported by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, with four new states now affected by the parasitic infection. The CDC’s latest update reveals that the number of cases has continued to climb, prompting concerns over the safety of certain food products, particularly lettuce. The parasite, known as Cyclospora cayetanensis, can cause a range of symptoms, including diarrhea, abdominal cramps, and fatigue, and is typically spread through the consumption of contaminated food or water.

The newly affected states bring the total number of states impacted by the outbreak to 15, with cases now reported in a significant portion of the country. The CDC is urging consumers to exercise caution when purchasing and consuming lettuce, particularly if it has been grown in areas where the outbreak is most prevalent. While the exact source of the contamination has not been identified, the agency suspects that the parasite may have been introduced to the food supply through contaminated water or soil. As a result, the CDC is advising consumers to avoid certain types of lettuce, including romaine and iceberg, and to instead opt for alternative leafy greens.

The full list of states affected by the outbreak now includes Arizona, California, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Iowa, Kansas, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Texas, and Wisconsin. Consumers residing in these states are advised to take precautions when handling and consuming lettuce, and to be aware of the potential symptoms of cyclosporiasis. The CDC is working closely with state and local health authorities to contain the outbreak and identify the source of the contamination, and is expected to provide further updates in the coming days. In the meantime, consumers are urged to remain vigilant and to prioritize food safety to minimize their risk of infection.