Investigations into Cyclospora Outbreaks and Rising Cases

The states with the highest cyclospora cases in 2026 are being mapped as federal health officials investigate a new outbreak and track the largest surge in cyclosporiasis ever documented in the United States. On July 22, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced it is looking into a second cyclospora outbreak that affects 72 individuals, though the precise food product involved remains unidentified.

This announcement followed a federal investigation that linked a separate outbreak across five states to shredded iceberg lettuce from Taylor Farms de Mexico, served at Taco Bell outlets in Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Ohio, and West Virginia. While the parasite has caused gastrointestinal illnesses in several states, not all cases may share the same source.

Hotspots of Cyclospora

Michigan is acutely affected by the outbreak. According to the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services, there have been 7,171 cases as of July 22, including over 102 hospitalizations. Ohio also faces a major outbreak, with over 2,200 cases and multiple hospitalizations reported by state officials. Indiana, New York, Kentucky, and Oklahoma have respectively reported 594, 517, 192, and 172 cases.

The CDC’s surveillance data reveals confirmed infections across 41 states. However, state totals are often higher since they include both probable and confirmed cases, while the CDC only reports laboratory-confirmed infections. A 6-week delay typically occurs between illness onset and CDC case reporting.

The agency is also assessing approximately 7,400 additional unconfirmed reports. The outbreak might not be confined to states with known illnesses, and the actual sick population is probably much larger, as many individuals recover without seeking medical care or being tested.

New Outbreak Under Investigation

The FDA stated the new outbreak has sickened 72 individuals, but the source remains unidentified. This announcement followed comments from Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. that the lettuce-linked outbreak was “under control,” after identifying a probable source, prompting large-scale product removal efforts.

An HHS spokesperson told Newsweek that FDA investigations continue to explore other products, retailers, restaurants, or distribution channels potentially tied to ongoing illnesses. The FDA has not disclosed affected states in this latest outbreak.

Five-State Outbreak and Taco Bell Lettuce

Federal health officials identified shredded iceberg lettuce at Taco Bell locations in Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Ohio, and West Virginia as the cyclospora outbreak source. Taylor Farms then recalled iceberg lettuce sourced from central Mexico from the U.S. market “out of an abundance of caution” on July 17.

The company expressed concern for the affected individuals and their families, emphasizing the impact on trust in their fresh produce’s safety. As of July 19, none of the samples tested for cyclospora linked to this outbreak have been confirmed positive after initial false positives.

The FDA’s investigation is ongoing, and other brands, retailers, and restaurants may yet be identified. Michigan officials noted that many ill individuals hadn’t eaten at Taco Bell, prompting investigators to explore additional supply chain routes for the contaminated lettuce.

Taco Bell’s Temporary Menu Change

On July 22, Taco Bell offered $1, lettuce-free Enchiritos amid the ongoing cyclosporiasis outbreak. The item includes a flour tortilla filled with ground beef, beans, diced onions, cheddar cheese, and red sauce. This temporary menu item does not specify its availability duration.

Understanding Cyclosporiasis

Cyclosporiasis results from the microscopic parasite Cyclospora cayetanensis. Symptoms typically emerge about a week after exposure but can develop within two days to two weeks. Common symptoms include watery diarrhea, stomach cramps, nausea, bloating, fatigue, loss of appetite, and weight loss.

Without treatment, symptoms may persist for weeks or months, with the possibility of recurring diarrhea episodes. The CDC advises those experiencing symptoms to consult healthcare providers for testing.

Consumer Safety Recommendations

Federal health authorities suggest thoroughly washing fruits and vegetables and exercising caution with pre-cut or packaged produce. However, washing alone may not eradicate the parasite. Cooking produce to at least 158 degrees Fahrenheit (70 degrees Celsius) is the most reliable way to eliminate Cyclospora.

Consumers facing ongoing diarrhea, weight loss, fatigue, or stomach cramps should seek medical attention, especially if symptoms appear within two weeks of eating fresh produce. The CDC reports illness among ages 2 to 95, with a mean age of 44.

As investigators strive to identify the source of the 72-case outbreak, official warnings suggest additional products or distribution channels may be linked to further illnesses in the coming weeks.