RFK Jr. Says US Parasite Outbreak Under Control
Robert F. Kennedy Jr. leads the US Health and Human Services Department. He said a cyclosporiasis outbreak is under control.
Thousands of people across the US are suspected or confirmed to have the parasite infection. The CDC has recorded at least 1600 confirmed cases nationwide.
About 94 to 141 people were hospitalized across five states. Those states are Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Ohio and West Virginia.
Over 5100 additional illnesses are under investigation nationwide. Mexico's health secretary is David Kershenobich.
He said Mexico's investigation found no evidence linking the outbreak to the Taylor Farms facility in central Mexico. Contaminated produce from that facility was suspected as a possible source.
The FDA has not confirmed a positive lab test linking the outbreak to Taylor Farms lettuce. An earlier positive result was later revised to a false positive.
Some lawmakers have criticized Kennedy's department. Senator Jon Ossoff said changes to food safety checks hurt the outbreak response.
Key Terms 4
- Cyclosporiasis An infection caused by a tiny parasite often spread through contaminated food.
- CDC US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, tracks disease outbreaks.
- FDA US Food and Drug Administration, checks food and drug safety.
- HHS US Health and Human Services Department, oversees public health.