US health authorities have expanded their investigation into a major cyclosporiasis outbreak linked to iceberg lettuce imported from central Mexico. The FDA and CDC said Thursday that infections have now been reported across 20 states, with thousands of people affected.
The outbreak has been associated with iceberg lettuce served at Taco Bell restaurants and supplied by Taylor Farms operations in Mexico. According to the latest federal update, the outbreak has resulted in 11,458 reported cases, including 495 hospitalizations.
Cyclospora Outbreak Spreads to More US States
The FDA said Georgia, Tennessee and Texas were added to the list of states reporting cases since the agency’s previous update. The expansion has made the cyclosporiasis outbreak one of the largest recent foodborne illness events in the United States.
Health officials are continuing to investigate how the parasite contaminated the lettuce and entered the food supply. The FDA said it is conducting inspections and collecting samples from iceberg lettuce farms and a processing facility in Mexico.
The agency is working with Mexican authorities and other federal, state and international partners as the investigation continues.
Cyclospora Symptoms and Health Risks
Cyclosporiasis is a gastrointestinal illness caused by the Cyclospora parasite. People infected with the parasite can experience persistent diarrhea, nausea, stomach cramps, fatigue and other digestive symptoms.
While many patients recover with treatment, the illness can cause significant health problems, particularly when symptoms continue for an extended period.
The FDA said it is confident that all recalled iceberg lettuce connected to the investigation has been removed from the US market. However, authorities continue to monitor new cases and investigate potential sources of contamination.
Michigan Reports Significant Impact
Michigan has been among the hardest-hit states in the outbreak. State health officials have reported two deaths involving people who had significant underlying health conditions.
Michigan has also recorded a substantial number of cases connected to the outbreak. The state’s health department reported 14,510 cases, an increase of 233 cases, or around 2%, compared with its previous update.
The figures reported by Michigan and federal agencies differ because health authorities may use different case definitions, reporting periods and methods for linking infections to the outbreak.
Officials continue to urge consumers and businesses to follow food safety guidance while the investigation remains ongoing.
