Another cyclospora outbreak not linked to lettuce under investigation: FDA

(NEXSTAR) – A new outbreak of cyclospora, the parasite capable of giving you “explosive” diarrhea, that has not been linked to the previously recalled lettuce is now under investigation by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.

The latest outbreak, with 72 cases connected to it, was added to the FDA’s list of ongoing investigations on Wednesday.

The cause has not been identified, though the FDA notes it is conducting traceback efforts.

The FDA has six active cyclospora outbreak investigations. Only the outbreak linked to iceberg lettuce, which has sparked more than 11,000 confirmed or suspected cases in the U.S., has an identified source. Two of the outbreaks – sickening two and eight people, respectively – are listed as ended.

Cases of cyclosporiasis, the illness associated with a cyclospora infection, are typically reported between May and August each year. While it can be acquired through food and water by those traveling outside the U.S., the parasite is more commonly linked to produce in domestic cases. An outbreak that sickened at least 69........

© The Hill