Cyclospora outbreak: Taco Bell under investigation in several US states as Michigan links cases to vegetables | Today’s news
Cyclospora outbreak: A dangerous parasite that has caused severe diarrhea in Michigan and more than 31 U.S. states may be spread through contaminated lettuce or salad greens in Michigan, the state Department of Health and Human Services reported to Bloomberg, adding that transmission from other sources cannot be ruled out.
According to The Washington Post, health officials are investigating whether Taco Bell could be linked to cyclospora outbreaks in other states. The report said several Taco Bell locations in the Detroit area displayed notices saying they “are currently unable to sell Lettuce, Cilantro Onion, Pico de Gallo and Guacamole due to the nationwide recall.”
Michigan, which had the highest number of cases, reported 2,640 cases of cyclosporiasis as of July 13. The state saw a 69 percent increase in cases compared to those reported on Friday, the highest number of cases reported in a single year.
The disease is caused by the microscopic parasite Cyclospora, which infects the intestines. It can cause nausea, stomach cramps and severe diarrhea that can last for several weeks.
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Michigan currently reports the highest number of cyclospora infections in the US. However, the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) said several other states, including New York, Ohio, Illinois, Indiana and Kentucky, are also seeing more cases than usual.
According to the latest CDC data, at least 843 confirmed cases have been reported in 31 states, with 86 people hospitalized, The New York Times reported.
How can people reduce their risk of Cyclospora infection?
Public health officials advise people to buy whole heads of lettuce instead of pre-washed or bagged varieties. Before consumption, they recommend removing the outer leaves and washing the inner leaves thoroughly under running water.
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For leafy greens that can be cooked, experts say heating them to at least 70°C (158°F) is the safest option, as washing and chemical disinfectants may not completely remove the Cyclospora parasite.
Health professionals also recommend washing all fresh fruits and vegetables under running water. However, experts warn that rinsing alone may not fully eliminate cyclospora, as the parasite can attach to the surface of the crop.
Which foods have been linked to past outbreaks?
Previous outbreaks of Cyclospora have often been associated with fresh produce such as basil, cilantro (cilantro), lettuce and raspberries. Some infections have also been linked to travel outside the United States.
“While we do not have a definitive product identified as the source of the outbreak, we want to let Michiganders know what we have learned so far so they can take steps to protect their families,” Natasha Bagdasarian, Michigan’s chief medical officer, said in a statement.
“Initial information indicates that lettuce is a common product that appears regularly during the investigation. We will continue to provide updates as we learn more.”
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How to protect yourself from cyclospora
Health experts say cooking food where possible is the most effective way to kill the parasite.
Anyone with persistent watery diarrhea, signs of dehydration, or symptoms lasting several days should seek medical attention. Older adults, young children and people with weakened immune systems are especially advised to consult a doctor if they develop symptoms.
According to Fox Weather’s food safety guidelines, people should avoid buying pre-cut salad sets and chopped vegetables. Instead, they should choose whole heads of lettuce or fresh herbs.
Experts also recommend removing and discarding the outer two or three leaves of leafy greens before preparing or eating them. Fresh berries, cilantro (coriander) and basil should be washed thoroughly under clean, running tap water, as simply soaking them in a bowl may not remove the Cyclospora parasite.
