Iowa Linked to Expanding Cyclosporiasis Outbreak as U.S. Cases Top 22,000
Iowa is among six new states being linked to the largest cyclosporiasis outbreak in U.S. history, as federal health officials report more than 22,000 suspected cases nationwide. The outbreak, tied to recalled iceberg lettuce, has now sickened residents in nearly every state.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention confirmed Tuesday that 10,468 laboratory-confirmed cases have been reported across 47 states, with an additional 12,255 cases still under investigation. If confirmed, the total would exceed 22,700 cases, making this the worst outbreak of the cyclospora parasite ever recorded in the United States.
What is Cyclosporiasis and How Does It Spread?
Cyclosporiasis is an intestinal illness caused by the microscopic parasite Cyclospora cayetanensis. People typically become infected by consuming contaminated food or water. The most common symptom is watery diarrhea that can be explosive and frequent, along with cramping, bloating, nausea, and fatigue.
According to the CDC, the current outbreak has been traced back to recalled iceberg lettuce. Consumers are urged to check their refrigerators and discard any lettuce linked to the recall.
Iowa Among New States Added to Outbreak Investigation
Sources familiar with the investigation told NBC News and The Washington Post that Iowa, along with Arkansas, Missouri, Nebraska, New Hampshire, and North Carolina, are being linked to the outbreak. These six states may soon be formally added to the nine already under federal investigation: Michigan, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, and West Virginia.
Michigan remains the hardest-hit state with more than 12,200 cases reported as of Wednesday. Missouri has reported 1,095 cases, up sharply from just under 600 in late July. North Carolina has recorded over 860 cases since May.
Iowa health officials have not yet released specific case counts tied to the outbreak, but the state's inclusion signals that Iowans should remain vigilant.
First Deaths Reported in Outbreak
This week, the U.S. saw its first suspected deaths linked to the outbreak. Two patients in Michigan died after becoming ill before the lettuce recall. State health officials noted that both individuals had significant underlying health conditions.
The CDC and the Food and Drug Administration have not yet commented on the addition of Iowa and the other states to the investigation.
What Iowans Should Do to Stay Safe
If you are experiencing symptoms, especially diarrhea lasting more than a week, health experts urge you to seek medical care. Left untreated, cyclosporiasis can persist for a month or longer. Treatment typically includes antibiotics, antidiarrheal medications, and hydration.
To reduce your risk:
- Check for recalled iceberg lettuce and discard any affected products.
- Wash all fruits and vegetables thoroughly before eating.
- Practice good hand hygiene, especially after handling raw produce.
The true number of infections may be higher than reported, as not everyone with symptoms seeks testing. Iowans should stay informed through local health department updates and the CDC's outbreak page.