The case count continues to rise as more and more people are being sickened by cilantro grown in the Puebla region of Mexico. As of August 10, 457 people in 29 states have contracted Cyclospora. Texas remains the hardest hit, with 157 cases of Cyclospora poisoning. Following Texas is Georgia with 22 cases, New York City with 21 cases, Florida with 11 cases, Wisconsin with 10 cases, Massachusetts with 9 cases, New York (excluding NYC) with 8 cases, Illinois with 6 cases, New Jersey with 6 cases, Connecticut with 3 cases, Montana with 3 cases, Virginia with 3 cases, Arkansas with 2 cases, California with 2 cases, Kansas with 2 cases, Michigan with 2 cases, and Washington with 2 cases. Iowa, Maryland, Missouri, Nebraska, New Mexico, and Utah have all reported one case. Canada has reported that 80 people have been poisoned with Cyclospora spread over several provinces, although the source of the cases is unknown. No deaths have been reported.
Investigators are unsure if the cilantro is the sole source of the outbreak. Investigations continue to locate other sources of Cyclospora. About 60 percent of the cases began after May 1, 2015. Kroger has already issued recalls for cilantro. Consumers have been cautioned to be careful about cilantro from Mexico until the outbreak is over.
Symptoms of Cyclospora poisoning will usually appear about a week after infection. Symptoms that may appear include watery diarrhea, weight loss, bloating, stomach cramps, vomiting, and fever. The illness can last up to 2 months. In most cases, Cyclospora infections can be treated by a combination of antibiotics. If you or a loved one has persistent diarrhea over a few days, be sure to contact a medical professional.
