▲ Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
Cases of cyclosporiasis, an intestinal infection caused by a parasite, are surging in the United States.
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) announced on July 14 that the number of confirmed cyclosporiasis cases in the country has reached 1,645 since May 1.
This figure represents an increase of more than 800 cases compared to one week ago and is 6.6 times higher than the 249 cases reported during the same period last year.
The CDC explained that because cyclosporiasis tends to be underdiagnosed and underreported, the actual number of patients is likely higher, noting that there are currently over 5,100 cases requiring further analysis.
In fact, Michigan, which is known to have the highest number of victims in this outbreak, reported 3,309 cases as of July 9.
Confirmed cases have been reported in over 30 states, spreading across the entire country, with 141 people hospitalized.
No deaths have been reported.
Meanwhile, health authorities are investigating whether the Mexican-style restaurant chain Taco Bell is linked to the outbreak, the Washington Post (WP) reported on the same day, citing sources.
Some Taco Bell locations have posted notices stating that they cannot sell lettuce, cilantro, or onions.
Taco Bell clarified that these measures were taken as a precaution and that health authorities have not confirmed any link to the restaurant chain or any specific ingredients.
Michigan health authorities have also identified lettuce or salad vegetables as potential causes of the outbreak.
Cyclosporiasis is an intestinal disease contracted by consuming water, fruits, or vegetables contaminated with feces.
After an incubation period of about one week, symptoms such as diarrhea, loss of appetite, and nausea appear, and while mild fever and vomiting may also occur, the illness is generally not life-threatening.
The CDC recommends washing produce thoroughly under clean, running water before consumption and seeking medical attention if diarrhea persists for several days.
(Photo: AP, Yonhap News)
※
Copying, redistribution, and unauthorized use in AI training are strictly prohibited.