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Is the cyclosporiasis outbreak slowing? Test-makers are hopeful

Is the cyclosporiasis outbreak slowing? Test-makers are hopeful

Summary

The cyclosporiasis outbreak in the US, caused by a parasite, may be slowing down according to data from a test maker. The outbreak has affected more than 18,000 people, mostly in the Midwest, where it has been linked to iceberg lettuce from Taylor Farms in Mexico.

Key Facts

  • The outbreak has over 18,000 suspected and confirmed cases as of late July.
  • Nine states in the Midwest have reported infections linked to iceberg lettuce from Taylor Farms’ Mexico operations.
  • bioMerieux, a company making a test for gastrointestinal illnesses, sees a decline in positive parasite tests since mid-July.
  • Increased public awareness has led to more people getting tested, which can affect positivity rates.
  • The CDC has confirmed 6,707 cases and is investigating about 11,500 more.
  • Cyclosporiasis cases usually rise in summer, but this outbreak’s peak was much higher than previous years.
  • The FDA is investigating other related outbreaks without a confirmed source, and the lettuce was sold in 27 states.
  • Some cases were found in New Hampshire, linked to the same lettuce, even though the state is not officially part of the outbreak.
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