Healthcare company launches new tests to detect cyclospora
Swiss healthcare company Roche said it had launched two new tests to detect cyclospora amid a cyclosporiasis outbreak in the U.S.
Massachusetts has been added to the list of states affected by the cyclospora outbreak, according to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.
More than 140 cases of Cyclosporiasishave been reported in Massachusetts, leading Massachusetts to officially be declared part of the outbreak. Maine was also added to the list.
It has also been confirmed that recalled iceberg lettuce products from Taylor Fresh Foods from June 29 through July 16 were distributed in the Commonwealth as well as Maine.
“Recalled products should no longer be available for sale,” the FDA said. “If you previously purchased or received food items with recalled iceberg lettuce from Taylor Farms de Mexico, carefully clean and sanitize any surfaces or containers that it touched.”
Here’s what you need to know about the Cyclospora outbreak.
What is Cyclosporiasis
Cyclosporiasis is a parasitic foodborne illness that can cause “explosive” diarrhea. It has been recorded in Massachusetts this summer, according to the state’s Department of Public Health. As of Aug. 17, there have been 147 cases.
Cyclosporiasis is caused by Cyclospora cayetanensis, a parasite often found on produce. A Michigan-based outbreak linked to recalled iceberg lettuce grown by Taylor Farms in Mexico has been identified as the largest nationwide, according to the Food and Drug Administration.
Some of the recalled lettuce products were distributed to food service locations in Massachusetts.
How do people contract cyclosporiasis?
In the U.S., people can become sick with cyclosporiasis by eating contaminated, uncooked produce, according to the DPH.
Previous outbreaks have been linked to fresh produce such as raspberries, fresh basil, cilantro, scallions, snow peas and bagged salad, the department said.
Outside the U.S., in areas where Cyclospora is endemic, people can also become sick by drinking contaminated water, according to the DPH.
Those in Massachusetts who suspect they got sick after eating food prepared outside a private home, such as at a restaurant, are urged to report it to the DPH through its Report My Meal page.
What are the symptoms of cyclosporiasis?
People typically start noticing cyclosporiasis symptoms about one week after eating food or drinking water infected with Cyclospora, according to the CDC.
Most common symptoms of cyclosporiasis:
- Watery or “explosive” diarrhea
- Loss of appetite
- Weight loss
- Cramping
- Bloating
- Increased gas
- Nausea
- Fatigue
Less common symptoms may include:
- Vomiting
- Body aches
- Headache
- Low-grade fever
- Other flu-like symptoms
Mary Walrath-Holdridge and Ken Alltucker of USA TODAY contributed to this report.
Rin Velasco is a trending reporter. She can be reached at rvelasco@usatodayco.com.
