The CDC has expanded the cyclospora outbreak to 15 states, adding six more states to an investigation that has centered on iceberg lettuce, according to officials familiar with the probe.
An FDA investigation linked cases in nine states to iceberg lettuce served at Taco Bell restaurants and sourced from Taylor Farms operations in central Mexico. Authorities said they are still examining other potential sources as the cyclospora outbreak continues to grow.
Missouri is among the newly added states and has reported 1,095 cases, according to a state health department spokesperson. State and local investigators said patients interviewed reported eating at Taco Bell before becoming ill. Information on the other five newly added states was not immediately available as the investigation is ongoing.
U.S. cyclosporiasis infections have surged to record levels this year, making this one of the largest recent foodborne illness outbreaks in the country. The parasite can trigger diarrhea, nausea and other gastrointestinal symptoms.
Michigan remains the hardest-hit state, reporting 11,508 cases as of today, an increase of more than 200 from the prior day’s update. State health officials also reported the first two deaths associated with the outbreak, noting both individuals had significant underlying health conditions.
The CDC, whose national surveillance typically trails state reports by several weeks, has documented 6,707 laboratory-confirmed cases as of July 28, along with more than 11,500 additional suspected cases pending laboratory confirmation.
What to know about the cyclospora outbreak
Health officials advise anyone with prolonged gastrointestinal symptoms to seek medical care, especially if they recently consumed products containing iceberg lettuce. Cyclospora infections are treatable, but diagnosis requires specific testing that is not part of routine stool exams.
For more information about national surveillance and guidance, visit the CDC cyclospora page. Readers interested in local public health enforcement actions can also see coverage of Hawaii Health Agents Swarm Multiple Hemp Stores in Coordinated Enforcement Sweep.
