Cyclospora Outbreak Linked to Lettuce Expands to More States

Federal health officials report that the largest U.S. outbreak of cyclospora, a diarrhea-causing parasite, has now expanded to additional states. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have linked cases to shredded lettuce supplied by Taco Bell restaurants. The outbreak includes new cases in Illinois, Kansas, Oklahoma, and Pennsylvania. Previously, affected states included Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Ohio, and West Virginia.

The CDC, along with the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and state health officials, continues to trace the lettuce supply chain. They are interviewing affected individuals about their food intake two weeks before falling ill. The outbreak has resulted in 1,947 reported cases, with 98 hospitalizations, although no deaths have occurred. Officials suspect actual numbers might be higher as not all cases are reported.

The FDA has pinpointed lettuce from Taylor Farms as a source. Taylor Farms is recalling iceberg lettuce grown in central Mexico. Meanwhile, the FDA investigates a separate cyclospora outbreak affecting 72 individuals, yet the products are still unidentified.

Since May 1, over 4,100 laboratory-confirmed cases have been reported to the CDC, with investigations into more than 7,400 potential cases across 41 states. Federal officials warn that other brands, restaurants, and retailers may still be implicated.

Cyclospora is a parasite found in food contaminated with human feces, often via irrigation or washing with polluted water. Ingesting the parasite can cause intense intestinal issues, including frequent and severe bowel movements.

Mexico’s health officials report no detection of the parasite in lettuce or water from Taylor Farms’ Guanajuato facility after inspections and sample testing in late July.