The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has added a new cyclospora outbreak to its list of ongoing foodborne illness investigations, with case counts climbing despite no clear link to the massive lettuce-related outbreak that has sickened thousands.
In its latest update, the FDA reported 21 new cases of cyclosporiasis tied to this separate outbreak, raising the total to 93 confirmed infections. Unlike the larger outbreak linked to contaminated lettuce from Mexico, this strain has no known source, and the agency is conducting traceback efforts to identify where the parasite originated.
“We are still working to determine the cause,” an FDA spokesperson said, noting that while the agency has not yet pinpointed a specific food vehicle, investigators are analyzing supply chains and interviewing patients to narrow down possibilities.
The development comes as the broader cyclosporiasis outbreak surpasses 18,200 suspected cases, with Michigan reporting the highest number of illnesses. The separate outbreak, which was first flagged by the FDA last week, appears to be geographically dispersed, though officials have not released a full state-by-state breakdown.
Health experts warn that cyclospora infections are often underreported, as symptoms like watery diarrhea, cramping, and nausea can take up to two weeks to appear. “Many people may not seek medical care, so the true number of cases could be significantly higher,” said Dr. Emily Carter, an infectious disease specialist at Georgetown University.
The FDA’s decision to separate the two outbreaks underscores the complexity of tracing foodborne pathogens. While the lettuce-linked outbreak has been tied to imported produce, the unknown source of this new cluster raises questions about other potential vectors, including imported herbs or domestic products.
Political fallout has already begun, with critics accusing the Trump administration of failing to adequately communicate the scope of the cyclospora crisis. A recent report highlighted communication failures that left states scrambling for resources, while former FDA officials have called for a formal investigation into the agency’s response.
As the FDA continues its traceback efforts, consumers are advised to practice safe food handling and report any suspicious symptoms to local health departments. The agency expects to provide further updates as the investigation progresses.
