US Links Cyclospora Outbreak to Mexican Lettuce

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported on June 20, 2024, that more than 1,400 people across 32 states have been infected by the parasitic Cyclospora cayetanensis. This outbreak marks one of the largest recorded instances of cyclosporiasis in the United States. Investigations by the CDC and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) have identified bagged salad mix containing romaine and iceberg lettuce, carrots, and red cabbage as the likely source of the infections. The implicated salad mix was distributed by Fresh Express under the brand name "Marketside Classic Iceberg Salad" and sold at Walmart stores.

Further analysis by the FDA and the CDC has traced the contamination to a specific lot of the bagged salad mix. While the investigation is ongoing, preliminary evidence strongly suggests that lettuce grown in Mexico is the source of the Cyclospora contamination. This finding has led to a voluntary recall of the affected product by Fresh Express. The CDC has advised consumers to discard any remaining Marketside Classic Iceberg Salad from Walmart and to consult their healthcare provider if they experience symptoms of cyclosporiasis, which include diarrhea, loss of appetite, weight loss, stomach cramps, bloating, gas, nausea, and fatigue.

Mexico's Ministry of Health has disputed the findings, stating that their own investigations have not found evidence to support the claim that lettuce from Mexico is the source of the outbreak. They have indicated that they are cooperating with U.S. authorities but are conducting independent analyses. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has stated that it is working closely with Mexican authorities to address the issue and ensure the safety of imported produce. The total number of reported cases has risen steadily since the initial alerts were issued in late May 2024, with the majority of infections occurring in states such as New York, Florida, and Texas.