Douglas County Health Department Reports Increase in Cyclospora Cases Amid Multistate Outbreak Concerns
The Douglas County Health Department (DCHD) has reported a rise in Cyclospora cases, with the current count reaching 45, up from 27 in previous reports. Although these cases in Nebraska have not been officially linked to the ongoing multistate outbreak, the DCHD is collaborating with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to determine if there is a connection. The CDC and FDA have identified shredded iceberg lettuce from Taylor Farms de Mexico as the likely source of the multistate outbreak. Investigations are ongoing to ascertain if the Douglas County cases are related to the same contaminated product. Cyclospora, a parasite often associated with bagged iceberg lettuce, can cause symptoms such as watery diarrhea, loss of appetite, stomach cramps, and fatigue. Health officials advise cooking produce to eliminate the parasite and recommend that diners inquire about the source of lettuce in restaurants.