Idaho health officials are investigating a lab-confirmed Cyclospora case in a traveler and expect more cases as the outbreak spreads.
BOISE, Idaho — Idaho health officials are investigating a lab-confirmed case of Cyclospora in an Idaho resident who traveled out of state before becoming ill, and they say more cases are likely as infections rise in parts of the country.
Cyclospora is a parasite that can be found on fresh produce and can cause people to become seriously ill. The Idaho Department of Health and Welfare says it expects additional cases, especially among Idahoans who have recently traveled to areas seeing an increase in infections.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Michigan is the epicenter of the outbreak. Cyclospora cases in Michigan increased by over 900 in the past week. Ohio has reported 177 cases, with more anticipated. Other states, such as New York and Illinois, also have over 100 cases each. A few dozen individuals have been hospitalized, but there have been no deaths.
Health authorities there are urging people to avoid bagged lettuce and salad mixes while investigators work to identify the source of the contamination.
Cyclospora commonly causes prolonged diarrhea, stomach cramping, fatigue and nausea.
