CDC EXPANDS LARGEST KNOWN CYCLOSPORIASIS OUTBREAK TO 15 STATES - THE WASHINGTON POST

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention announced that the largest known cyclosporiasis outbreak has expanded to 15 states, marking a significant increase in the geographic spread of the infection. The announcement came as health officials reported two deaths linked to the outbreak, both occurring in Michigan.

According to reports from The Washington Post and Reuters, Michigan now has 11,508 confirmed cases of cyclospora, the protozoan parasite that causes the illness. The National Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Infectious Diseases cited that the outbreak has reached 45 states overall, with the CDC’s recent update focusing on 15 states that have experienced a rise in cases. The deaths represent the first confirmed fatalities associated with this outbreak, highlighting the potential severity of the infection for vulnerable populations.

Cyclospora is typically contracted through contaminated produce and can cause severe gastrointestinal symptoms. The expansion of the outbreak underscores the need for heightened surveillance and public health measures across the United States.

• CDC expansion of outbreak to 15 states, total 45 states affected
• Michigan reports 11,508 cases and 2 deaths linked to cyclospora
• Outbreak highlights risk of contaminated produce and need for broader public health response

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