Hundreds of People Across the Country Infected by Parasite From Bagged Salad Mix

The Center for Disease Control is reporting 641 cases of Cyclospora infections across 11 states that are connected to bagged salad mixes.

States include Georgia, Illinois, Iowa, Kansas, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota, Pennsylvania, South Dakota, and Wisconsin. Of those infected in the Cyclospora outbreak, 37 were hospitalized and no deaths have been reported.

Cyclospora is an intestinal illness that is caused by a microscopic parasite that affects the small intestine tract. People can become infected after ingesting food or water containing the parasite. Symptoms may include including diarrhea, stomach cramps/pain, nausea, vomiting, or other bowel disruptions.

The company linked to the infected bagged salad mix, Fresh Express, has since recalled its salads containing iceberg lettuce, red cabbage, and carrots with a product code beginning with Z178 or a lower number.

The Food and Drug Administration is investigating other Fresh Express products sold at ALDI, Giant Eagle, Hy-Vee, Jewel-Osco, ShopRite, and Walmart. Investigators will also look into whether other retail brands may be impacted.

In 2016, Fresh Express recalled several of its products four times in one year due to foodborne illness concerns.

Read the most recent announcement from Fresh Express for more details about recalled products.

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