The source of a virus quickly spreading throughout the United States has yet to be identified, though lettuce is believed to be a likely suspect. The Food and Drug Administration identifies Cyclosporiasis as an intestinal illness caused by parasites associated with all kinds of fresh produce. It occurs only in humans and the most common symptom is diarrhea.
Produce farmers are facing scrutiny as investigators look into their methods and hygiene, and as consumers turn to trusted local growers, reports Austin Mirmina in CT Insider. Mirmina visited the DeFrancesco farm in Northford, CT, and learned that the farm’s produce stand has been very busy. “I noticed yesterday our lettuce cooler was completely cleared out,” said co-owner Mike DeFrancesco. “I’m seeing a lot of people buying three or four heads of lettuce at a time, when normally people would buy just one head.”
Sara Moniuszko reports in USA Today that as of July 15, 1,645 cases of the illness had been confirmed with more than 5,100 being investigated across 34 states. A cluster of cases in Kentucky, Michigan, Ohio and West Virginia are likely linked, according to the CDC, the newspaper reported. Michigan has been particularly hard hit with more cases than any other state.
Jamey Lee reports in Market Watch that the illness may have more than once source and might not end until August, and this outbreak appears to be the largest on record.
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