The United States is currently grappling with a significant outbreak of cyclosporiasis a parasitic illness known for causing severe, watery diarrhea and other gastrointestinal symptoms. The outbreak has been linked to shredded iceberg lettuce served at Taco Bell locations in Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Ohio, and West Virginia.
As of 16 June 2026 the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has recorded 145 cases across 17 states with some hospitalizations reported. However, this number is likely an undercount due to the lag in reporting. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has identified a single supplier of the contaminated lettuce, which originated from Mexico.
The Cyclosporiasis Outbreak: What You Need to Know
The current outbreak is notable for its size and rapid spread. Michigan for instance, has reported nearly 1,000 cases a stark contrast to its usual annual average of around 50 cases. Ohio has also seen a sharp increase, with 177 cases reported as of 2 July.
The CDC has issued warnings advising consumers not to eat shredded iceberg lettuce from Taco Bell restaurants in the affected states. Taco Bell has responded by committing to stop using any lettuce from the supplier identified by the FDA’s traceback investigation. The FDA is actively working with the supplier to determine if potentially contaminated lettuce remains on the market.
Understanding Cyclosporiasis
Cyclosporiasis is a gastrointestinal illness caused by the parasite cyclospora which spreads through raw produce and water contaminated with human feces. In the US, outbreaks typically occur during the summer months, between May and August.
The most commonly reported symptom is watery diarrhea often described as explosive. Other symptoms include crampsnauseafatigueloss of appetitelow-grade fever and vomiting. Symptoms can last from several days to over a month, and some people may not experience any symptoms at all.
The average time from ingestion to symptoms is about a week, but this can range from two days to about two weeks. Cyclosporiasis is not usually life-threatening, and most people recover on their own. However, those with weakened immune systems are at higher risk. The illness is typically treated with antibiotics.
Historical Context and Prevention Tips
Past outbreaks of cyclosporiasis in the US have been linked to contaminated raw fruit, vegetables, and herbs such as basilcilantroberries and spinach. In 2026 a surge of cases in Florida was caused by contaminated lettuce in packaged salad kits. Other notable outbreaks include a 1996 outbreak tied to Guatemalan raspberries that sickened almost 1,500 people and a 2019 outbreak linked to Mexican basil that sickened more than 2,400 across the US and Canada.
To protect yourself from cyclosporiasis, it is crucial to avoid food or water that may have been contaminated. Fresh produce should be thoroughly washed before being eaten. However, cyclospora can cling to some foods, so washing may not eliminate the risk entirely. Fruits, herbs, and vegetables with nooks and crannies, such as raspberriesblackberrieslettucespinachcilantrogreen onions and basil are more likely to harbor the parasite.
Health officials recommend purchasing whole heads of lettuce rather than pre-washed, bagged lettuce or salad mixes. They also advise removing the outer two to three leaves before washing the remaining ones under running water. Cooking produce and vegetables when possible can kill the pathogen and reduce the risk of infection.
