Outbreak
OUTBREAK|
UPDATE 2: FOOD SOURCE LINKED
Multi-State Outbreak of Cyclospora Illnesses Linked to Iceberg Lettuce. Investigation Ongoing.
JUL 16, 2026
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Cyclospora
Severity
5100 cases reported, 1645 people sick (confirmed) and 141 hospitalized in 34 states since May 2026. Separately, new findings linked 1644 illnesses and 94 hospitalizations in 5 states to shredded iceberg lettuce served at Taco Bell locations. The true number of people sick is likely higher than reported. FDA identified a common supplier in Mexico, while additional implicated brands, restaurants, retailers, and distribution channels remain under investigation.
Who's At Risk?
People traveling or living in tropical or subtropical regions of the world may be at increased risk because cyclosporiasis is common in those regions. However, people living in other areas can become infected with Cyclospora by consuming food or water that has been contaminated with the parasite.
Symptoms
Watery diarrhea (may be prolonged or relapsing), loss of appetite, weight loss, cramping, bloating, increased gas, nausea, fatigue, vomiting, body aches, headache, low-grade fever. People experience symptoms about 2 - 14 days after consuming food or drinking water containing Cyclospora. Symptoms can last anywhere from a few days to a month or longer.