The Del Monte Cyclospora Kwik Trip outbreak has grown to include 185 people sick, according to the FDA. That number is current as of June 28, 2018; all cases are lab-confirmed. The ill persons live in Iowa, Minnesota, Wisconsin, and Michigan. Seven people have been hospitalized.
These illnesses are associated with recalled Del Monte 6 ounce and 12 ounce vegetable trays containing broccoli, carrots, cauliflower, and dill dip sold by Kwik Trip/Kwik Star locations in Iowa, Indiana, Michigan, Minnesota, and Wisconsin. Del Monte is also recalling “small veggie trays” that are 28 ounces and include broccoli, cauliflower, carrots, celery, and dill dip and were sold in Illinois and Indiana.
FDA hasn’t identified which of these ingredients are contaminated with the one celled parasite. Officials are reviewing distributor and supplier information and the investigation is ongoing.
Attorney Fred Pritzker, who is representing many clients sickened in this Del Monte cyclospora Kwik Trip outbreak said, “This outbreak has grown tremendously since the first report was issued by the Wisconsin Department of Health on June 9, 2018. Then, just 14 people were counted as part of the outbreak group.”
The case count by state is: Michigan (2), Iowa (5), Minnesota (47) and Wisconsin (131). The last illness began on June 9, 2018.
The symptoms of cyclosporiasis include frequent and explosive bowel movements that are watery. Other symptoms include weight loss, loss of appetite, stomach cramps and pain, bloating, nausea, increased gas, fatigue, vomiting, fever, and body aches.
If you have been experiencing these symptoms, see your doctor. There is treatment for this illness, but it is sulfa-based. Anyone who is allergic to sulfa needs to talk to their doctor about treatment options. If untreated, this illness can last for months and often recurs.