US Cyclospora Outbreak Linked to Sewage

The largest cyclospora outbreak ever recorded in the United States has sickened more than 22,000 people and contributed to two deaths in United States — Michigan. Scientific researchers and public health officials, including water microbiologist Joan Rose of Michigan State University, point to sewage contamination in the food supply as the most plausible cause. Cyclospora, a parasite found only in humans, is excreted in feces and can survive standard sewage treatment processes. Treated wastewater used for irrigation can then contaminate crops, perpetuating the cycle. The U.S. government is still investigating the cause. Historical outbreaks were linked to imported raspberries from Guatemala. The article highlights gaps in monitoring and regulation of protozoa in treated sewage, and suggests that wastewater surveillance and improved treatment methods could help prevent future outbreaks.