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Outbreaks of cyclosporiasis--United States, 1997
MMWR. Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report
|May 23, 1997
Abstract:
In April and May 1997, CDC received reports of seven event-associated clusters of cases of cyclosporiasis from five states (California, Florida, Nevada, New York, and Texas). Approximately 80 cases of infection with human-associated Cyclospora, a recently characterized coccidian parasite have been laboratory-confirmed. State and local health departments, CDC, and the Food and Drug Administration are conducting investigations to identify the vehicles of infection.
Insights
Cyclosporiasis outbreaks in 1997 affected approximately 80 individuals across five states. Investigations are ongoing to identify the source of these Cyclospora infections.
Area of Science:
- Medical Parasitology
- Infectious Disease Epidemiology
Background:
- Cyclosporiasis is an intestinal illness caused by the parasite Cyclospora cayetanensis.
- Recent characterization of this coccidian parasite has aided in identifying human-associated infections.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report on the initial clusters of cyclosporiasis cases identified in the United States in 1997.
- To initiate investigations into the vehicles of infection for Cyclospora.
Main Methods:
- Surveillance data collection from state and local health departments.
- Laboratory confirmation of Cyclospora infection in affected individuals.
- Collaboration between the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for outbreak investigation.
Main Results:
- Seven event-associated clusters of cyclosporiasis were reported between April and May 1997.
- Approximately 80 cases of laboratory-confirmed Cyclospora infection were identified.
- Cases were reported from five states: California, Florida, Nevada, New York, and Texas.
Conclusions:
- The identified clusters indicated a potential public health concern regarding Cyclospora transmission.
- Ongoing investigations are crucial for identifying common sources and preventing future outbreaks.