9 confirmed cases of cyclosporiasis linked to lettuce served at Cheshire Medical Center

State health officials in New Hampshire have confirmed nine cases of cyclosporiasis among individuals who consumed lettuce at the Cheshire Medical Center cafeteria in Keene. The New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services is currently monitoring the situation as they investigate the potential for additional cases tied to this cluster.

Dartmouth Health reported that 16 people were exposed to the infection, a group that includes 10 hospital employees. In response to the findings, the medical center removed all salad bar options from its facility. Officials confirmed the specific lettuce supply is part of a wider national recall issued by Taylor Farms.

While the infection is not fatal, it can lead to severe gastrointestinal distress, including persistent watery diarrhea and stomach cramps. Medical experts state that symptoms usually appear within one to two weeks after consumption. While most individuals with healthy immune systems recover without treatment, the duration of symptoms can last for several weeks.

Health authorities advise anyone who ate at the cafeteria between the start of June and July 20 to monitor their health. If symptoms develop, patients should contact their healthcare provider for evaluation and testing. State epidemiologist Dr. Benjamin Chan noted that the count of confirmed cases may grow as more testing occurs following the public notice of this outbreak.