An outbreak of cyclosporiasis linked to iceberg lettuce in the United States has now spread to 20 states, with nearly 11,500 people reported to have fallen ill.
According to Reuters, the investigation into the lettuce-linked outbreak has been expanded to three additional states Georgia, Tennessee and Texas bringing the total number of affected states to 20.
Around 495 people have so far required hospitalisation, while two deaths have been reported in Michigan, according to the report.
The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) said the outbreak has been linked to iceberg lettuce sourced from central Mexico and used at Taco Bell restaurants. The lettuce was supplied through Taylor Farms’ operations in Mexico.
Cyclosporiasis is an intestinal infection caused by the parasite Cyclospora cayetanensis. It is typically contracted by consuming food or water contaminated with the parasite.
Common symptoms include frequent diarrhoea, abdominal cramps, nausea, loss of appetite, weight loss and fatigue. Symptoms can develop about a week after exposure and may persist if the infection is not treated.
Health authorities continue to investigate the outbreak and its source while monitoring reported cases across the affected states.
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