A multistate outbreak of cyclosporiasis has resulted in approximately 11,000 cases across the United States, with contaminated lettuce identified as a source of the parasitic infection. Michigan has been identified as the outbreak hotspot, though recent data suggests illness cases may be slowing in the state following a lettuce recall.
The FDA has emphasized that the U.S. food supply remains safe, according to statements from the agency’s acting deputy commissioner for food, Donald Prater, who addressed the issue during the International Association for Food Protection’s annual meeting. The FDA’s assertion comes as health authorities continue to investigate and track the outbreak.
Public health officials are monitoring whether the downward trend in Michigan represents a genuine peak in the outbreak or a temporary fluctuation. The recall of contaminated lettuce products appears to have been a significant step in controlling further spread, though investigations into the contamination source and extent of the outbreak remain ongoing.
Sources
Featured photo by Valentyna Kobrina on Unsplash