More than 18,200 cyclosporiasis cases now suspected in US: Where it’s getting worse - The Hill

What the report says

The Hill, citing Nexstar and federal health data, reported that suspected U.S. cyclosporiasis cases have climbed above 18,200 in what authorities now consider the country’s largest known outbreak of the illness. The CDC said that, as of Wednesday, more than 6,700 domestically acquired cases had been confirmed since May 1, while over 11,500 additional cases were awaiting confirmation.

The illness is caused by the cyclospora parasite and typically affects the gastrointestinal system. According to the report, nine states are now tied to the outbreak investigation, which officials have associated with iceberg lettuce sourced from Mexico. Illinois, Kansas, Oklahoma and Pennsylvania were recently added to the list. Health officials have also said the broader U.S. food supply remains safe.

Michigan is the hardest-hit state, with more than 10,000 reported cases, an increase of nearly 3,000 in a week. The Hill noted that Michigan usually records about 50 confirmed cases a year. Ohio has reported more than 2,600 cases, while Indiana has surpassed 900. Kentucky and Illinois also recorded notable week-over-week increases, according to Nexstar’s review of CDC, state and local information.

The report said every state has logged at least one cyclosporiasis case this year, though not all are linked to the outbreak. Some cases, including in Hawaii, were associated with travel. Because not everyone with cyclospora infection is tested or develops noticeable symptoms, officials say the actual number of infections may be higher than reported.