Officials Declare End to Cyclosporiasis Outbreak Linked to Imported Lettuce

Why it matters locally: Given Florida's significant reliance on imported produce to meet consumer demand and its large, diverse population, residents should remain aware of food safety practices regarding fresh produce, particularly leafy greens. The state's agricultural industry, while primarily focused on citrus and vegetables, could see shifts in consumer preferences for domestically sourced produce following such outbreaks.

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Health officials in the United States have declared the end of a cyclosporiasis outbreak. This outbreak represented the largest recorded incidence of the parasitic illness in the country. Investigators identified over 12,000 cases of cyclosporiasis during the outbreak period. Two individuals died as a result of the infection, officials confirmed. Epidemiologists linked the illnesses to the consumption of imported lettuce. Cyclosporiasis is an intestinal illness caused by the parasite *Cyclospora cayetanensis*. Individuals typically contract the parasite by consuming contaminated food or water. Symptoms often include severe diarrhea, loss of appetite, weight loss, abdominal cramps, bloating, nausea, and fatigue.