Parasite Cases Increasing In RI: See Latest Data, Products To Avoid

Case numbers of cyclosporiasis continue to steadily increase in Rhode Island as officials work to contain the multi-state outbreak of the diarrhea-causing parasite.

The CDC says that Rhode Island has between one to 49 laboratory confirmed cases. The Rhode Island Department of Health has confirmed six cases. The state department of health said "Rhode Island is not currently seeing an abnormally high number of cases of cyclosporiasis."

Nationally, case counts have risen to more than 22,000, according to the CDC, with 10,468 confirmed cases and another 12,255 additional probable or under-investigation cases. Thousands more have been reported by state health departments.

Some states like Illinois have seen a decrease in new cases, even as the total case numbers continue to increase.

The investigation into the source of the outbreak remains ongoing.

The recall on iceberg lettuce from Taylor Farms in Mexico remains in place, despite a false positive on a test earlier this week. Traceback data from cases connects this outbreak to that source, the CDC said.

Taco Bell has since removed the affected lettuce from its local restaurants and national supply chain, and Taylor Farms has issued a nationwide recall of iceberg lettuce sourced from Mexico. Sysco, the nation’s largest food distributor, withdrew all Taylor Farms iceberg lettuce from Mexico at ​the supplier's request.

Find the complete list of affected products, as well as lot codes and use-by dates, here.

Related:

• New Developments In Cyclospora, Salmonella Outbreaks: What To Know In RI

• How To Wash Lettuce, Berries And Herbs To Reduce Cyclospora Risk
• Cyclosporiasis Outbreak Grows: How To Order Fast Food Safely
• This State Investigates More Than 100 Salmonella Cases Tied To Chipolte, Other Restaurants