Cyclospora Outbreak Tied to Lettuce Sickens Thousands in US
Summary
Dr. William Schaffner discusses the Cyclospora outbreak linked to shredded iceberg lettuce from a specific farm in Mexico, with over 5,000 cases in Michigan alone. He advises washing produce thoroughly and explains how national food distribution can spread outbreaks widely. He also addresses a Legionnaire's disease outbreak in New York City tied to cooling towers, noting health department efforts have contained it.
- Cyclospora outbreak has sickened thousands, primarily in Michigan, with shredded iceberg lettuce from a Mexican farm identified as the source.
- The outbreak is believed to be nearing its end following CDC and state investigations.
- Consumers are advised to wash, peel, or cook produce to reduce risk, especially vulnerable populations.
- Large-scale national and international food distribution can cause geographically widespread outbreaks.
- A separate Legionnaire's disease outbreak in NYC infected 46 people, with 22 hospitalized, linked to lax maintenance of building cooling towers.
- Health department regulations require proper cooling tower maintenance; the outbreak is now considered contained.
