2005 Multistate Outbreak of Cyclospora Cayetanensis Infections Linked to Fresh Basil, Florida
Florida health departments began receiving reports of gastroenteritis caused by cyclospora. The health department investigation was hindered by the long interval between ingestion and presentation of symptoms for this particular pathogen. Food questionnaires and other epidemiological studies indicated fresh basil was the most likely source of the outbreak. The Food and Drug Administration initiated a traceback and found that the basil had originated in Peru. Eighty-nine of the ill were residents from other states, and ten were residents of Canada.
- Outbreak began:
- February 2005
- Affected Country:
- International
- Affected States/Territories:
- California, Alabama, Florida, Mississippi
- Organism(s):
-
- Cyclospora
- Vehicle(s):
- Herbs and Spices, Fresh Basil
- Molecular Results Available:
- No
- Test Results:
- None
- Location(s):
- Unknown
- Brand Name(s):
- Product Subject to Recall:
- Unknown
-
- Recall Links:
- None
- Total ill:
- 592
- Number ill by Case Definition Known:
- Yes
- Number Laboratory Confirmed Cases:
- 365
- Number Probable Cases:
- 227
- Number Possible Cases:
- 0
- Anyone Hospitalized:
- Unknown
- Number Hospitalized:
- Unknown
- Any Deaths:
- Unknown
- Number Dead:
- Unknown
- Any References:
- Yes