Cyclospora cases (domestic) top 200 this summer in the US

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported 202 domestically acquired cyclosporiasis illnesses in the past few weeks, bringing the total this summer to 208 laboratory-confirmed cases in people who had no history of international travel. At least 21 people required hospitalization for their illness.

The cases have been reported in 22 states. No deaths have been reported.

Health officials note that cyclosporiasis illnesses are reported year-round in the United States; however, during the spring and summer months there is often an increase in cyclosporiasis acquired in the United States (i.e., “domestically acquired”).

While many cases of cyclosporiasis cannot be directly linked to an outbreak, previous U.S. outbreaks of cyclosporiasis have been linked to various types of fresh produce, including basil, cilantro, mesclun lettuce, raspberries, and snow peas.