1997 Multistate Outbreak of Cyclospororiasis Linked to Fresh Basil at Catered Luncheons
A gourmet caterer that had nine stores in the northern Virginia-DC-Baltimore, Maryland metropolitan area was associated with outbreaks of cyclospora. Groups of persons developed cyclosporiasis after group luncheons. Eating dishes that contained fresh basil increased the risk of illness. A produce supplier for company A provided most of the supply of basil for the time frame of exposure. However, this produce supplier also supplied produce for other outlets, and the other outlets did not appear to be associated with the outbreak.
- Outbreak began:
- June 1997
- Affected Country:
- US
- Affected States/Territories:
- Maryland, Virginia, District of Columbia
- Organism(s):
-
- Cyclospora
- Vehicle(s):
- Herbs and Spices, Fresh Basil
- Molecular Results Available:
- Unknown
- Test Results:
- None
- Location(s):
- Caterer
- Brand Name(s):
- Product Subject to Recall:
- Unknown
-
- Recall Links:
- None
- Total ill:
- 308
- Number ill by Case Definition Known:
- Unknown
- Number Laboratory Confirmed Cases:
- N/A
- Number Probable Cases:
- N/A
- Number Possible Cases:
- N/A
- Anyone Hospitalized:
- Unknown
- Number Hospitalized:
- Unknown
- Any Deaths:
- Unknown
- Number Dead:
- Unknown
- Any References:
- Yes