Cyclospora outbreak: 12,883 cases, two deaths, and the summer crisis ends

The CDC announced Friday that the Cyclospora outbreak that plagued the United States this summer is now under control.

Cyclospora outbreak: national toll and timeline

The parasite Cyclospora cayetanensis spreads through contaminated fresh produce, most notably iceberg lettuce sourced from central Mexico. At the height of the crisis, daily reports topped ↓ 1,000 cases; by August, they fell below two per day. Confirmed infections totalled ↑ 12,883, with 570 hospitalizations. Two fatalities were recorded in Michigan, where underlying health issues likely amplified the disease’s impact.

“There is no longer a risk of illness from the recalled lettuce,” the CDC warned.

Twenty‑one states reported cases; Michigan bore the brunt with over 5,700 infections, followed by Ohio (2,871) and Missouri (1,071). The Food and Drug Administration continues to investigate how the lettuce became tainted. For further details see the CDC and Reuters reports.

Dispatch from: Dr. Silas Mercer

Biotech & Longevity Editor