Cyclospora Outbreaks in 2026 and Ongoing Investigations

Recent reports show states with the highest number of cyclospora cases in 2026, as federal health officials investigate recent outbreaks. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced on July 22 the investigation of a second cyclospora outbreak affecting 72 individuals. The food source in question remains unidentified.

This announcement came shortly after federal investigators traced an outbreak in five states to shredded iceberg lettuce from Taylor Farms de Mexico. This lettuce was served at Taco Bell locations in Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Ohio, and West Virginia. Cases are reported in several states, but not all illnesses originate from the same source.

Current Public Health Response

The new investigation is part of a broader public health effort following the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reporting over 4,000 confirmed cases of cyclosporiasis across 41 states since May 1. More than 7,000 additional reports await confirmation.

States with the Highest Number of Cases

Michigan faces the largest outbreak, with 7,171 cases reported as of July 22, including 102 hospitalizations. Ohio follows with more than 2,200 cases and numerous hospitalizations. Indiana reports 594 cases, New York 517, Kentucky 192, and Oklahoma 172.

CDC surveillance indicates cases across 41 states, but state-level totals often include both probable and confirmed cases, unlike CDC reports that count only confirmed infections. The CDC acknowledges a six-week delay between illness onset and CDC reporting.

The true number of affected individuals could be higher, as many recover without medical assistance and testing is rare.

Investigation of a New Outbreak

The FDA stated the 72-person outbreak is under investigation, with no identified source yet. The announcement was made after Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. indicated the prior outbreak was “under control” after identifying a likely source.

An HHS spokesperson emphasized ongoing investigations into potential connections between additional products, retailers, restaurants, or channels.

Outbreak Linked to Taco Bell Lettuce

Officials confirmed shredded iceberg lettuce at Taco Bell in five states as the outbreak source. In response, Taylor Farms recalled all iceberg lettuce from central Mexico in the U.S. from July 17.

FDA tests have not confirmed positive cyclospora samples from this outbreak. Initial positive tests from Taylor Farms were later deemed false positives. Taco Bell removed affected lettuce from its restaurants.

The FDA warns the investigation is ongoing and other brands, retailers, or restaurants might be linked. Michigan health officials noted some affected had not eaten at Taco Bell, suggesting potential contamination in other supply chains.

Taco Bell’s Response

In light of the outbreak, Taco Bell began offering $1 lettuce-free Enchiritos from July 22, featuring a flour tortilla with beef, beans, onions, cheese, and red sauce. This menu item is temporary.

Understanding Cyclosporiasis

Cyclosporiasis is an intestinal illness from the Cyclospora cayetanensis parasite. Symptoms often appear a week post-exposure but can range from two days to two weeks. Common symptoms: watery diarrhea, stomach cramps, nausea, bloating, fatigue, and weight loss. Without treatment, symptoms may persist or recur.

The CDC recommends contacting a healthcare provider for testing if symptoms occur.

Consumer Recommendations

Federal health officials urge washing fruits and vegetables thoroughly. Despite this, washing alone may not eliminate cyclospora. Cooking produce to 158 degrees Fahrenheit (70 degrees Celsius) effectively kills the parasite.

Consumers experiencing prolonged diarrhea, weight loss, fatigue, or stomach cramps should seek medical attention, especially if symptoms develop within two weeks of consuming fresh produce.

The CDC noted affected individuals range from ages 2 to 95, with an average age of 44.

As investigators continue to trace the recent 72-case outbreak, officials caution that other products or channels may become linked to illnesses in the coming weeks.