Foodborne illnesses: Is the US really being hit harder this year? [News explainer]

Recent foodborne illness outbreaks in the United States have garnered significant media attention, raising concerns about a potential increase in such infections this year. However, experts explain that the extensive news coverage may be making the situation seem more severe than it is. One of the current outbreaks is Cyclosporiasis, caused by the single-celled parasite Cyclospora cayetanensis. Symptoms include watery diarrhea, nausea, and cramping, though the illness is rarely fatal.

Between May 1 and August 4, there have been 10,468 confirmed and an additional 12,255 suspected cases of Cyclosporiasis across the country. The majority of these cases are linked to an outbreak of contaminated iceberg lettuce from central Mexico, supplied by Taylor Farms. A recall was issued on July 17, resulting in over 6,300 cases across 15 states, causing 278 hospitalizations and two deaths.

However, experts emphasize that this particular outbreak is not necessarily alarming, as it stems from a single farm supplying a small fraction of the U.S. iceberg lettuce market.

The number of Cyclosporiasis cases reported this year is significantly higher than in previous years, with the CDC confirming over 10,000 domestically acquired cases, compared to 2,000 to 3,000 in a typical year. This surge is attributed to increased consumption of fresh produce year-round, much of which is grown in and imported from tropical and subtropical regions where the parasite is commonly found.

Additionally, enhanced testing methods have led to a higher rate of diagnosis. The outbreak's impact has been limited by the time it takes for symptoms to appear and the testing capacity, as the actual risk remains low for most Americans.