Erie County cyclosporiasis outbreak linked to lettuce

Erie County, United States — Pennsylvania, is experiencing a significant outbreak of cyclosporiasis, a gastrointestinal illness caused by a microscopic parasite found in fresh produce. The United States — Erie County Department of Health reported 199 confirmed cases as of July 31, with nine hospitalizations and no deaths. The outbreak is part of a larger nationwide event, with cases traced to bagged lettuce and food from Yum! Brands — Taco Bell. Taylor Farms issued a voluntary recall of iceberg lettuce products on July 17 after an investigation by the United States — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the United States — Food and Drug Administration, and state health officials linked the illnesses to lettuce from Taylor Farms de Mexico supplied to Yum! Brands — Taco Bell locations in five states. The FDA initially reported a positive test for cyclospora in a Taylor Farms lettuce sample, but later determined it to be a false positive. The county health department has been interviewing patients and advising residents to avoid bagged lettuce and wash produce thoroughly. Local healthcare providers, including AHN Saint Vincent Family Medicine and UPMC Greenfield Internal Medicine, have seen patients with the illness. The outbreak has drawn attention due to its rapid rise in cases and the involvement of major food suppliers and restaurant chains.