Largest Cyclospora Outbreak on Record Expands to Nine States, CDC Reports Nearly 2,000 Confirmed Cases

The largest cyclosporiasis outbreak in United States history has expanded to nine states, the CDC confirmed Friday, with nearly 2,000 laboratory-confirmed infections linked to shredded iceberg lettuce served at Taco Bell. The four newly added states — Illinois, Kansas, Oklahoma, and Pennsylvania — join Indiana, Kentucky, Ohio, West Virginia, and hard-hit Michigan. The CDC reports at least 98 hospitalizations, though no deaths have been recorded. Illness onset dates range from June 22 through July 20. The true number of cases is likely significantly higher, with over 11,500 suspected cases under investigation. Cyclospora cayetanensis is a microscopic parasite that causes cyclosporiasis, a gastrointestinal illness characterized by severe diarrhea and fatigue. The infection can last weeks if untreated. Taco Bell has removed the implicated lettuce from its supply chain. The outbreak has become a major test for HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s promise to overhaul the nation’s food safety system. The CDC advises checking for recalled products.