Another Cyclospora outbreak has been reported by government officials. This time, 15 people in Iowa and 90 people in Illinois are sick in this cyclospora outbreak. Some of those patients are ill with the parasitic infection after allegedly eating McDonald’s salads from the fast food restaurant chain.
These illnesses in this cyclospora outbreak started occurring in late June and early July in Iowa, and starting in mid-May in Illinois. Dr. Patricia Quinlisk of the Iowa State Department of Health said in a statement, “Anyone who ate these salads since the middle of June and who developed diarrhea, especially watery diarrhea and fatigue, should see their health care provider and get tested for Cyclospora to ensure an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.”
IDPH Director Dr. Nirav D. Shah said in a statement, “Although a link has been made to salads sold in McDonald’s restaurants in some Illinois cases, public health officials continue to investigate other sources. If you ate a salad from McDonald’s since mid-May and developed diarrhea and fatigue, contact a health care provider about testing and treatment.”
Attorney Fred Pritzker can be reached for help at 1-888-377-8900 or 612-338-0202.
Food safety lawyer Fred Pritzker, who is representing many clients sickened in another current cyclospora outbreak linked to Del Monte Vegetable Trays, said, “Cyclospora outbreaks are becoming quite common in the United States in the summer months. The parasite is endemic in tropical and subtropical climates. But every year for at least the past six years, this type of outbreak sickens dozens and even hundreds of people. No one should get sick because they ordered a salad from a fast food restaurant.”
McDonald’s is cooperating with public health officials and is in the process of removing the salads from its restaurants and distribution centers. The restaurants will be re-supplied with salads from other suppliers.
The symptoms of cyclosporiasis include loss of appetite, weight loss, cramping, bloating, increased gas, nausea, fatigue, low-grade fever, and frequent explosive and watery diarrhea. People usually start feeling ill about a week after consuming food or drinking water contaminated with the parasite. If you ate a McDonald’s salad and have been sick with these symptoms, see your doctor.
