The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has expanded its investigation into a cyclosporiasis outbreak linked to shredded iceberg lettuce, adding four new states to the total. This brings the number of affected states to nine.
Illinois, Kansas, Oklahoma, and Pennsylvania are the latest states to be added to the CDC's list. They join Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Ohio, and West Virginia, which were previously identified as part of the outbreak.
Cyclosporiasis is an intestinal illness caused by the microscopic parasite Cyclospora cayetanensis. People typically become infected by consuming food or water contaminated with the parasite. Symptoms often include diarrhea, loss of appetite, weight loss, stomach cramps, bloating, gas, nausea, and fatigue. Some individuals may also experience vomiting, fever, and a general feeling of tiredness.
The CDC continues to investigate the source of the outbreak, focusing on shredded iceberg lettuce as a potential vehicle for contamination.