Cyclospora Outbreak Linked to Taco Bell Lettuce: What You Need to Know

The outbreak of cyclospora, linked to shredded iceberg lettuce from Mexico served at Taco Bell in five U.S. states, has resulted in over 1,600 reported cases nationwide. The CDC and FDA have warned consumers against eating the lettuce from Taco Bell locations in Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Ohio, and West Virginia. Although the illness is generally not life-threatening, Taco Bell has pledged to stop using lettuce from the affected supplier and has removed it from their restaurants and supply chain.

On July 16, the CDC warned against eating shredded lettuce from Taco Bell in five states due to over 1,600 cases of diarrhea linked to the Cyclospora parasite. The agency is investigating nearly 7,000 confirmed or suspected cases nationwide, tracing the outbreak back to a common supplier of iceberg lettuce from Mexico.

Cases may persist into August as investigators seek the source, typically acquired through contaminated water or food, particularly fresh produce such as salad and herbs, linked to the parasite Cyclospora cayetanensis.

The CDC has reported 1,645 cases of a parasite, with 145 individuals requiring hospitalization. Deputy director Gwen Biggerstaff stated that the actual number of infections is likely higher due to unreported mild cases. We are experiencing many cyclosporiasis cases this summer.