Largest US outbreak of explosive diarrhoea parasite is over, officials say

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) announced the end of the largest outbreak of cyclosporiasis, an intestinal infection caused by the cyclospora parasite, which affected over 12,000 people across 21 US states. The outbreak resulted in two deaths and 570 hospitalizations. The CDC linked the outbreak to lettuce imported from Mexico by Taylor Farms, prompting a voluntary recall and removal of the lettuce from Taco Bell’s menu. Cyclospora spreads through contaminated food or water, causing severe diarrhea, though deaths are rare. The two fatalities occurred in Michigan and involved individuals with significant underlying health conditions. Since May, nearly 20,000 cases have been confirmed, with the true number likely higher. The outbreak has also raised concerns in the UK due to cases among returning travelers. The previous worst year for infections was 2019, with about 4,700 cases. QUESTION: How might the recent outbreak of cyclosporiasis influence future food safety regulations and practices in the United States?