The investigation into a widespread outbreak of the diarrhea-causing parasite Cyclospora, linked to shredded iceberg lettuce imported from Mexico, has expanded to include three additional states, bringing the total to 20 states with reported cases. As of September 1, the outbreak has sickened 11,458 people and resulted in two deaths, an increase from the previous week's reported figures.
New cases have been linked in Georgia, Tennessee, and Texas. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) are jointly investigating multiple outbreaks of Cyclospora, with the current focus on a batch of iceberg lettuce from Taylor Farms de Mexico. Epidemiologic and traceback data indicate that this lettuce was contaminated with the parasite.
The outbreak primarily involves individuals who reported consuming iceberg lettuce from Taylor Farms, sourced from a processor in central Mexico. Consumers who ate at various locations, including some Taco Bell restaurants, have reported illness. Taco Bell has since removed lettuce from its menu items in response to the outbreak.
Taylor Farms voluntarily recalled iceberg lettuce grown in Mexico in July. The FDA classified the recalled product at its highest risk level, Class I, signaling a significant probability of serious adverse health consequences or death. The recalled lettuce was distributed across 27 states.
Despite the recall and ongoing investigation, Taylor Farms has stated that no further testing of its products has detected the pathogen, and that initial positive test results were false positives. The company maintains that its branded salads and kits are not associated with the outbreak. However, officials, including Acting FDA Commissioner Kyle Diamantas, remain confident that iceberg lettuce from central Mexico was the source and that all related product has been removed from the market.
This outbreak contributes to a record number of locally acquired Cyclospora infections in the U.S. this year. Nationwide, at least 17,180 confirmed cases are reported, with nearly 12,000 more under investigation. These figures include 922 hospitalizations and two deaths across 48 states and Washington, D.C. Health officials acknowledge that the actual number of infections may be higher, as not all cases undergo testing or treatment, and there are inherent delays in connecting reported illnesses to ongoing outbreaks.