Cases of diarrhea-causing parasite rise in Florida, with Miami-Dade leading in confirmed cases - WPLG Local 10

What the report says

WPLG Local 10 reported that cyclosporiasis infections are increasing in Florida and nationally, with Miami-Dade County recording the highest number of confirmed cases in the state. Citing the Florida Department of Health, the station said Florida had 154 confirmed infections and four suspected cases as of its July 24 report. Miami-Dade accounted for 33 confirmed cases, while Broward County had 13 and Monroe County had one.

State health officials said 98 of Florida’s infections were acquired within the state, according to WPLG. The remaining cases were linked either to travel or exposure elsewhere in the United States or outside the country. Cyclosporiasis is an intestinal illness caused by the Cyclospora parasite and is commonly associated with prolonged diarrhea; public health agencies often investigate foodborne sources when clusters appear.

The Florida update followed an expanded voluntary recall by Taylor Farms involving iceberg lettuce products sourced from central Mexico, WPLG reported, citing Associated Press material. The company said the recall was tied to a possible connection with a multistate Cyclospora outbreak. Products potentially affected were shipped to 27 states, including Florida, Texas, Pennsylvania, Illinois and New Jersey.

According to the report, Taylor Farms’ recall notice covered 25 shredded lettuce and salad mix products sold under eight brand codes, with shipments as recent as July 16 and “best by” dates extending to Aug. 3. WPLG said Taylor Farms did not provide the Associated Press with full brand or retailer names after an emailed request. Health officials advised consumers to reduce risk by washing hands and rinsing fresh produce thoroughly before eating.