FDA Closes Cyclospora Outbreak Investigation, But Source of 13,000 Cases Remains a Mystery
FDA declares cyclospora outbreak over but origin of 13,000 cases still unknown. New data reveals surge in parasitic illness linked to lettuce.
POLICY WIRE — Washington, United States — Federal health officials have declared the largest cyclospora foodborne illness outbreak in U.S. history as over, but the source of nearly 13,000 confirmed cases remains unclear.
The outbreak, which affected 21 states, was primarily linked to iceberg lettuce, but thousands of additional cases have not been connected to this specific incident. The CDC reports that more than 20,000 lab-confirmed cases were reported since May 1, a dramatic increase compared to previous years.
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Despite the FDA’s assurance that all recalled iceberg lettuce from the outbreak has been removed from the market, questions persist about how the parasite entered the food supply. Experts suggest contamination could occur if produce comes into contact with water or soil tainted by human waste. The agency has concluded its on-site inspections in Mexico and is awaiting results from samples collected during the investigation.
Reporting by Policy-Wire (PW)
