State health officials say 12 people have been hospitalized as investigators examine an outbreak linked to imported iceberg lettuce.
OKLAHOMA CITY — Oklahoma health officials have identified 172 confirmed and probable cases of cyclosporiasis as state and federal investigators continue examining a multistate foodborne illness outbreak.
The Oklahoma State Department of Health said 12 people have been hospitalized. No deaths have been reported.
The outbreak is part of a multistate investigation led by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Federal officials have identified shredded iceberg lettuce imported from central Mexico as the likely source of the outbreak, although the investigation remains ongoing.
Cyclospora is a microscopic parasite that can cause prolonged diarrhea, loss of appetite, weight loss, stomach cramps, nausea and fatigue. Symptoms typically begin about one week after consuming contaminated food.
State health officials encourage anyone experiencing symptoms after eating fresh produce to contact a health care provider. The Oklahoma State Department of Health said it continues working with federal partners as the investigation proceeds.
