Photo by Mike Mozart via Flickr
Audio By Carbonatix
Advertising Can't Do It Alone
The challenges facing local news organizations are very real. That's why reader support matters more than ever. If you believe independent journalism matters, make a contribution today and help us reach our summer fundraising goal of $10,000 by August 9.
Federal health officials have identified the culprit behind the diarrhea outbreak sweeping across the nation: Taco Bell lettuce.
On Thursday, health officials announced that they had traced the widespread outbreak of the diarrhea-causing parasite cyclospora to lettuce from Mexico served at Taco Bell locations in five U.S. states (no, Florida isn’t one of them). The announcement ended a dayslong mystery after the parasite sickened more than 7,000 people nationwide — including South Florida, where officials have reported dozens of cases in recent months.
“Do not eat shredded iceberg lettuce served at Taco Bell locations in Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Ohio, and West Virginia,” the CDC said in an investigation update.
While the parasite is rarely deadly, health experts warn that an infection can be far more miserable and long-lasting than a typical stomach bug.
Here’s what South Floridians should know.
What is Cyclospora?
Cyclospora is a microscopic parasite that infects the intestinal tract. People contract cyclosporiasis after consuming food or water contaminated with the parasite.
What are the symptoms of Cyclospora?
Symptoms usually appear about a week after someone is infected and can include frequent watery diarrhea, stomach cramps, bloating, nausea, fatigue, and loss of appetite. Unlike a typical stomach bug, cyclosporiasis can linger for weeks or longer, with symptoms that improve and then return.
How do people catch it?
Cyclospora does not spread directly from person to person. Instead, people get infected by eating or drinking something contaminated with the parasite. While investigators have yet to identify the source of this year’s cases, past outbreaks have been linked to contaminated fresh produce, including lettuce, basil, cilantro, salad mixes, and raspberries. In 2022, Florida health officials traced an outbreak to Caesar salad kits, resulting in 508 confirmed and probable cases statewide.
How many Cyclospora cases are in South Florida?
According to the Florida Department of Health’s reportable disease database, there have been more than 100 cases of cyclosporiasis reported statewide between January 1 and July 11. Thirty of those cases were reported in South Florida:
- Miami-Dade County: 20 cases
- Broward County: 7 cases
- Palm Beach County: 3 cases
How can you avoid getting sick?
The safest way to prevent infection is to handle and prepare food properly. Experts recommend washing produce thoroughly and cooking fruits and vegetables when possible. Cooking food to an internal temperature of 158 degrees Fahrenheit or higher kills Cyclospora, according to the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services.
