Cyclospora Infections Surge Across the U.S.

Infections from Cyclospora, a parasite known for causing diarrhea, have increased significantly across the United States. Reports suggest that 2026 might already be the worst year for cases. Over 30 states have reported infections, surpassing the record number of infections set in 2019, which was about 4,700. Although the illness is not generally life-threatening, it is treated with antibiotics.

Health officials have yet to pinpoint the exact source of the infections. However, there have been indications of differing infection patterns in various regions. At least four states, Michigan, Ohio, Kentucky, and West Virginia, might be experiencing a linked outbreak.

Michigan’s Investigation Points to Lettuce

Michigan health officials have reported over 3,300 cases. Initial findings suggest lettuce or salad greens might be involved. Natasha Bagdasarian, Michigan’s chief medical executive, noted a commonality of this produce in patient interviews.

Michigan authorities recommend purchasing whole heads of lettuce, discarding the outer leaves, and thoroughly washing the remainder. They also advise avoiding bagged lettuce and pre-mixed salad kits.

Taco Bell has responded by removing certain ingredients from select restaurants as a precaution. They plan to monitor the situation in accordance with public health advice.

Federal health officials did not specify whether inquiries have extended to Taco Bell or any particular food vendor. The FDA is continuing its investigation of various produce items and places visited by patients before falling ill.

Cyclospora Overview

Cyclospora is a microscopic parasite known for causing watery diarrhea with frequent, sometimes explosive bowel movements, according to the CDC. Infections occur most frequently in late spring and summer. The parasite spreads via fecal matter and commonly infects through fruits or vegetables exposed to contaminated irrigation water.

Cyclosporiasis is less common than other foodborne illnesses like salmonella or E. coli. Historically, few cyclospora outbreaks had been reported, but numbers started to climb over the past decade, with spikes in 2018 and 2019. Experts believe climate change and improved detection methods contribute to the increase. Cyclospora cases previously went unreported partly due to insufficient testing methods.

CDC’s Observations

2019 held the record for infections, reporting around 4,700 instances. The CDC tracks national data, albeit often trailing real-time local reports. Recently, CDC has identified 1,645 confirmed domestic cases since May 1, with over 5,100 requiring further verification. These reports emerge from 34 states, with no deaths reported.

The actual number of cases might be higher, as some individuals might have mild symptoms and not seek medical help. Gwen Biggerstaff from the CDC conveyed expectations for case numbers to continue rising through August.

State-specific reports like Michigan’s, with over 3,300 cases, Ohio’s with over 1,100, New York City’s with over 400, and Illinois’s with more than 200, show varied infection sources. In Illinois, travel was a factor in over half of the infections, suggesting some may have occurred abroad. Michigan officials theorize a significant portion of their cases relates to a domestic outbreak.