U.S. Cyclospora cases reach 1,645 across 34 states

U.S. health authorities have recorded 1,645 confirmed cases of cyclosporiasis across 34 states as of last week. The infection is caused by the microscopic Cyclospora parasite and produces prolonged, watery diarrhea. Officials are examining shredded lettuce distributed to Taco Bell restaurants and grown by Taylor Farms in Mexico as a potential source.

The current outbreak is the largest on record in the United States.

A parasitology expert at Charles Sturt University stated that the parasite could enter Australia through imported fresh or frozen produce from Central and South America or parts of Asia. Leafy greens, herbs, and berries are common carriers. The same expert noted that cyclosporiasis is not a notifiable disease in Australia, so confirmed cases are not required to be reported to health authorities.

She added that reduced training in parasitology for medical and veterinary students has left fewer specialists able to recognize or respond to such infections. An associate professor in food microbiology at the University of NSW said the risk remains low because Australia maintains strict biosecurity controls and grows most of its produce domestically.

He cautioned that diagnosis could be delayed if physicians first test only for more common bacterial and viral causes.

A 2010 cyclosporiasis outbreak on two cruise ships departing Fremantle affected at least 73 people with laboratory-confirmed cases and another 241 suspected cases. Fresh produce loaded in Malaysia or Singapore was considered a possible source, but no definitive origin was identified.

The Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry is monitoring the U.S. outbreak. A spokesperson said there is currently no evidence that food linked to the outbreak has entered Australia.