FDA Investigates New Cyclospora Outbreak, 72 Cases Identified
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration is investigating a new outbreak of the parasite Cyclospora, responsible for gastrointestinal illnesses. To date, 72 cases have been identified in this sixth outbreak investigation by the FDA this year.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced it is investigating a new outbreak of Cyclospora, a parasite causing foodborne illnesses characterized by diarrhea. The agency has identified 72 cases linked to this latest outbreak, marking the sixth Cyclospora investigation opened by the FDA in 2024.
Overall, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has recorded more than 11,500 cases nationwide, spanning 41 states. Among these, 4,173 are confirmed and over 7,400 are considered probable. The illnesses have resulted in 308 hospitalizations, with no reported deaths.
This year's case count, even as of July, significantly exceeds the typical annual numbers seen in the U.S. In recent years, the annual total has ranged between 2,000 and 5,000 cases, according to CDC data. Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. stated the situation is "under control" despite the unusually high number of cases this year.
The FDA has not yet provided specific details regarding the source or affected products in this particular outbreak. Health officials continue to monitor the situation as the number of reported cases is expected to rise.