US Health Agencies Track Multiple Food Safety Outbreaks Across Dozens of States

Washington — U.S. health authorities are investigating several foodborne illness outbreaks and contamination risks involving lettuce, meat, poultry, eggs and fresh produce across dozens of states, as federal officials sought to reassure consumers about the safety of the nation’s food supply.

National Institutes of Health Director Dr. Jay Bhattacharya said a Cyclospora outbreak linked to iceberg lettuce from Mexico has been larger than outbreaks typically recorded in the United States. The outbreak has affected 15 states, while two deaths were reported during the past week, according to information discussed Sunday on CBS News’ “Face the Nation.”

“The Cyclospora outbreak is larger than in normal years,” Bhattacharya said.

Bhattacharya said the deaths occurred in late June and early July, before health officials identified the source of the outbreak. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Food and Drug Administration are working to trace the contamination and prevent affected products from reaching consumers, he said.

“The CDC and the FDA are working hard to trace back exactly where these outbreaks are occurring from,” Bhattacharya said, adding that authorities are working with suppliers and conducting recalls to limit further spread.

The Cyclospora outbreak is one of several food safety concerns currently being investigated by federal agencies.

During the interview, CBS News also cited a U.S. Department of Agriculture alert involving meat and poultry products that could contain Salmonella, as well as potential Salmonella contamination involving jalapeños distributed across 27 states. Cilantro, red onions and avocados were also included in a CDC notice.

Albertsons has recalled some affected products, while health authorities are separately investigating Salmonella concerns involving eggs in Texas.

The U.S. cattle industry is also confronting concerns associated with New World screwworm, a parasitic fly that can infect livestock.

Bhattacharya, who is temporarily assisting with leadership of the CDC until a new director takes office, said consumers do not necessarily need to avoid lettuce but should take precautions when preparing it.

“We’re working hard to make sure that the contaminated sources don’t get onto the shelves,” he said.

“If you’re worried, you can buy the lettuce, but make sure you wash it carefully. You don’t eat outer leaves. And if you’re really worried, just, you know, cook your vegetables,” Bhattacharya added.

Asked whether the United States should restrict food imports from central Mexico, Bhattacharya said he could not speak for the FDA but defended the efforts of federal personnel investigating the outbreaks.

He said tracing Cyclospora can be particularly difficult because determining the precise source of contamination is more complicated than investigating many bacterial outbreaks.

Bhattacharya did not announce additional import restrictions or provide a timetable for completing the federal investigations.

Cyclospora infection is caused by a microscopic parasite and is frequently associated with contaminated fresh produce. Symptoms can include prolonged diarrhea, stomach cramps, nausea, fatigue and loss of appetite, and may persist or return without treatment.

Salmonella is a bacterial infection commonly transmitted through contaminated food. Young children, older adults and people with weakened immune systems are at greater risk of developing severe illness.

New World screwworm is a parasitic fly whose larvae can infest wounds in warm-blooded animals, posing a potentially serious threat to cattle and other livestock. (Source: IANS)