The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention confirmed on Friday that the largest recorded outbreak of cyclosporiasis in the United States has come to an end. The announcement brings closure to a significant public health incident that saw cases spike across the country.
Cyclosporiasis is a parasitic illness caused by the microorganism Cyclospora cayetanensis, typically contracted through the ingestion of contaminated food or water. Health officials had been tracking the surge closely as it became the most extensive outbreak of its kind on record in the nation.
Investigations into the source of the contamination pointed toward fresh produce supplied by Taylor Farms. The global supplier, which operates facilities such as the one in Salinas, California, was identified as being connected to the outbreak. The company’s logo was prominently visible at production sites during the height of the crisis in July.
As the CDC declares the outbreak over, public health authorities are likely shifting focus toward reviewing the safety protocols that allowed the contamination to spread and ensuring similar incidents are prevented in future supply chains.
This is the largest on record. How many people actually got sick? That must have been a nightmare for the CDC.
Good news, but I’m still avoiding bagged salads until we know more about their safety protocols.