It’s quite unsettling to learn that a sample of iceberg lettuce, supplied by Taylor Farms, has tested positive for the parasite linked to the current US outbreak. What makes this particularly concerning is that this positive sample wasn’t even part of the product recall list. This situation highlights a deeper issue, especially when considering how Taco Bell, which has faced scrutiny in the past for making people sick, appears to be taking proactive steps while larger entities seem to be lagging. It’s almost as if a fast-food chain is outperforming governmental agencies in safeguarding public health.
The fact that this parasite has spread to other restaurant chains, not just Taco Bell, is a stark reminder of the pervasive nature of foodborne illnesses.… Continue reading
The lack of readily available historical data significantly hinders the ability to analyze and understand outbreaks or clusters. This absence of expected information forces investigations to commence without a foundational basis, effectively operating “in the dark.” Consequently, crucial insights for effective response and mitigation are lost.
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The nation is currently grappling with a widespread outbreak of explosive diarrhea, linked to a parasite that the CDC ceased federal surveillance of in July 2025. This decision coincided with the Trump administration’s efforts to reduce funding for federal health and science agencies, impacting crucial programs like FoodNet, which previously tracked eight foodborne pathogens, including cyclospora. Now, with FoodNet’s surveillance drastically reduced to only two diseases, states are facing their own outbreaks and acknowledging that without federal support, their ability to monitor these threats is compromised, potentially leaving the public more vulnerable.
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State health officials in Michigan and Ohio are reporting thousands of cases of cyclosporiasis, a parasitic infection causing significant gastrointestinal distress. This outbreak, exceeding 2,800 cases, follows funding cuts to state and local health departments and a reduction in a program dedicated to coordinating foodborne illness information. Experts suggest these actions have hindered the ability to effectively track and manage such outbreaks, making it more challenging to “see the whole picture.” While the CDC is tracking cases across multiple states, Michigan is particularly hard-hit, with health departments advising thorough washing or cooking of certain produce. The investigation into this outbreak is complicated by the parasite’s long incubation period and typical reporting delays, which are believed to be exacerbated by diminished public health capacity.
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The current outbreak has now affected over a dozen states, with Michigan experiencing a particularly severe surge in cases. In the past two weeks alone, nearly 1,000 individuals in Michigan have been diagnosed. While the outbreak is widespread, no fatalities have been reported in the United States due to these recent infections.
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Several states are experiencing an increase in Cyclospora cases, a parasite that contaminates raw produce and causes severe diarrhea. While no single outbreak has been identified, investigations are underway to pinpoint potential sources, with fresh herbs and berries being common culprits in past outbreaks. The parasite is killed by heat, so thoroughly washing all raw fruits and vegetables, along with practicing good hygiene, is crucial to prevent illness.
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The case described is exceptionally rare, with experts anticipating it to be a once-in-a-career event. Many infectious disease consultants nationwide are unlikely to encounter a similar situation throughout their professional lives due to its extreme infrequency. This statement underscores the extraordinary and unique nature of the medical phenomenon discussed.
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The CDC has significantly reduced the scope of FoodNet, a three-decade-old program tracking food poisoning infections, by narrowing required monitoring to only two pathogens: salmonella and Shiga toxin-producing E. coli. This change, which began in July, reduces mandatory surveillance from eight pathogens, with the remaining six now optional. While the CDC claims the change allows for prioritization and effective resource management, food safety officials express concern that the reduced monitoring could hinder the detection of outbreaks and obscure the comprehensive picture of food-related infections. This is concerning as FoodNet provided robust data, including case numbers, that helped to understand certain infections and risks in the food supply.
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A Salmonella outbreak linked to approximately 1.7 million recalled August Egg Company eggs has sickened at least 79 people across seven states, resulting in 21 hospitalizations. The recall, encompassing specific plant codes (P-6562 or CA5330), covers eggs distributed between February and May. August Egg Company is conducting an internal review to prevent future occurrences, while the CDC advises consumers to discard or return recalled eggs and sanitize affected surfaces. This outbreak is one of several recent salmonella incidents involving various foods.
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A salmonella outbreak, traced to approximately 1.7 million recalled August Egg Company eggs distributed across nine states, has resulted in 79 illnesses and 21 hospitalizations. The recall encompasses brown organic and cage-free eggs sold between February and May. Symptoms range from diarrhea and fever to severe vomiting and dehydration, though most recover within a week; however, vulnerable populations may require hospitalization. Consumers are urged to discard or return recalled eggs and sanitize affected surfaces.
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Matt Underwood 
John Q. Hosedrinker