Nebraska Cyclospora outbreak eclipses 50 cases, Iowa rises to 87

The investigation into the outbreak of the rare parasitic infection, Cyclospora, continues in Nebraska as health officials report there are currently 53 cases statewide concentrated mostly in the eastern part of the state, according to a Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) news release Tuesday.

Four Cyclospora oocysts from fresh stool stained using a modified acid-fast stain.
Image/CDC (DPDx)

Three people have been hospitalized and were released.

Based on interviews with Nebraskans who contracted the illness, vegetables appear to be the cause of the outbreak.  Locally grown produce is not part of this outbreak.

Because of the limited shelf life of fresh vegetables, the DHHS says the yet unidentified contaminated food source may have worked its way through the system.

“We’re hoping to find the outbreak is limited in duration and scope and this is an encouraging sign,” said Dr. Joseph Acierno, Chief Medical Officer and Director of Public Health for DHHS. “We are still working to locate the exact source of the outbreak and will remain vigilant in investigating newly reported cases.”

In neighboring Iowa to the east, the Iowa Department of Public Health  reported today that the number of confirmed cases has risen to 87, up from 81 the day prior.