Maine is now officially part of a multistate outbreak of cyclosporiasis tied to iceberg lettuce.
The Maine Center for Disease Control & Prevention said in a public health advisory Friday afternoon that it has identified 27 cases of cyclosporiasis in the state so far this year, 10 of them directly related to the Taylor Farms lettuce recall. That means Maine has reached the threshold to be considered part of a nationwide outbreak.
The CDC advised Maine clinicians to test for the illness caused by the parasite cyclospora. Clinicians should consider testing when patients report symptoms of “severe or prolonged gastrointestinal symptoms.”
Cyclosporiasis is most commonly characterized by watery diarrhea. Other symptoms include fatigue, loss of appetite, cramping, bloating, nausea and fatigue, usually beginning roughly one week after exposure.
People experiencing any symptoms are also advised to speak to their health provider about getting tested.
The CDC warns that people should thoroughly wash fresh produce under clean running water, even if it is labeled prewashed. Cooking produce to 158 degrees Fahrenheit or more can kill the cyclospora parasite entirely.
Nationwide, the U.S. CDC has confirmed more than 6,350 cases of cyclosporiasis across at least 15 states, resulting in nearly 280 hospitalizations and two deaths. The federal agency notes that the number of cases is likely much higher, because many people are not tested and recover without seeking care.
The recall was initiated on July 17, when Taylor Farms recalled all iceberg lettuce sourced from central Mexico. According to the U.S. CDC, the recalled lettuce was sold in at least 27 states between June 29 and July 16.