Cyclosporiasis Outbreak in U.S. States: Shredded Iceberg Lettuce Identified as Source

The United States faces an outbreak of cyclosporiasis linked to shredded iceberg lettuce from a supplier. Federal officials urge consumers to avoid lettuce from Taylor Farms de Mexico. This lettuce was served at Taco Bell locations in Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Ohio, and West Virginia. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported this warning, pushing for caution.

“Do not eat food items with shredded iceberg lettuce from Taylor Farms de Mexico served at Taco Bell locations in Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Ohio, and West Virginia,” the CDC advised.

Cases Across the U.S.

The outbreak coincides with cyclosporiasis cases reported in 34 states, with Michigan being severely affected. Not every case is linked to the same source. The CDC investigates additional instances across the country unrelated to the lettuce outbreak. Michigan Department of Health and Human Services documented 5,002 cases, including 102 hospitalizations. Ohio reported 1,192 cases with 86 hospitalizations, according to The Columbus Dispatch. New York accounted for 517 cases as of July 13.

The CDC confirmed 1,645 laboratory-verified cases of cyclosporiasis across 34 states as of July 13, with 141 hospitalizations. It clarified that all cases originated from food consumed within the U.S., without overseas travel 14 days prior. Over 5,100 further cases are under review for confirmation as domestically acquired cyclosporiasis.

Outbreak Linked to Shredded Iceberg Lettuce

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) traced the outbreak to iceberg lettuce from Taylor Farms de Mexico, served at Taco Bell. Taylor Fresh Foods removed all iceberg lettuce from central Mexico from the U.S. market, based on FDA findings.

“As a family owned and operated company, we are deeply concerned for those who became ill, their families, and the many Americans whose trust in the safety of their fresh produce has been shaken,” Taylor Farms stated.

Taco Bell responded by removing affected lettuce from its locations nationwide, ensuring consumer safety.

Potential Links to Other Brands and Restaurants

The FDA warns that other suppliers may be involved as investigations persist. Michigan investigators assess if lettuce was supplied to other establishments as not all patients consumed Taco Bell meals.

Michigan health officials advise purchasing whole heads of lettuce instead of pre-washed, bagged lettuce or pre-mixed salad kits for safety.

Debilitating Symptoms: A Personal Account

Chase Strangio, affected by the parasite, shared his symptoms with Newsweek. He experienced gastrointestinal discomfort and fatigue after eating lettuce and cilantro at work. Symptoms included fever, severe stomach cramps, and ongoing fatigue.

“The symptoms are much more complicated than just explosive diarrhea,” Strangio noted.

His illness resulted in significant weight loss and emotional anxiety post-recovery.

Updated Advice from the CDC

The CDC urges individuals feeling cyclosporiasis symptoms to contact healthcare providers for testing. Symptoms can show up within 2 to 14 days after exposure, lasting from days to over a month without treatment.

Consumer Precautions

Consumers should handle produce with care. Precautions include discarding outer fruit and vegetable layers, thoroughly rinsing produce, observing caution with pre-washed or pre-cut items, and avoiding cross-contamination. Cooking fresh produce to at least 158 °F (70°C) ensures safety against the parasite.

Discrepancies in Case Numbers

Different case numbers between the CDC and states exist. The CDC includes only laboratory-confirmed cases from states, while state data may list probable cases, leading to discrepancies in reported numbers.