Douglas County experiencing rapid increase in Cyclospora infections

DOUGLAS COUNTY, Neb. (KLKN) — The Douglas County Health Department (DCHD) announced there has been a rapid increase in Cyclospora infections among residents. 12 out of the 27 confirmed cases have been reported in the last four days.

DCHD said they are working with organizations to determine whether the cases are associated with the multistate outbreak. The Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS), Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC),  U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and DCHD are continuing the investigation of the Cyclospora outbreak.

Epidemiologists with Douglas County recognized eating at Taco Bell was the most common exposure for the cases to date.

“Cyclospora is not uncommon during the summer months; however, the number of cases reported over the past several days is higher than we would typically expect in such a short period of time,” said Dr. Justin Frederick, Deputy Health Director and Chief of Epidemiology & Preparedness for the Douglas County Health Department. “Our investigation has identified eating at Taco Bell as the most common exposure among the cases interviewed to date. We have shared these findings with our state and federal public health partners and will continue working together to determine whether Douglas County cases are associated with the ongoing multistate outbreak. As our investigation continues, we are committed to providing timely updates and helping residents make informed decisions to protect their health.”