A multistate outbreak of Cyclospora, a parasite that causes severe diarrhea, is continuing to grow across the United States. While investigators have identified one source linked to part of the outbreak, health officials say the investigation is not over and additional sources may still be involved.
Cyclospora infections usually occur after eating food or drinking water contaminated with the parasite. Fresh produce is the most common source because the parasite can survive on fruits and vegetables that are eaten raw. The CDC and FDA are continuing to work with state health departments to identify all of the foods responsible for this year’s illnesses.
Part of the Outbreak Has Been Linked to Shredded Lettuce
The CDC has confirmed that one group of illnesses has been linked to shredded iceberg lettuce from Mexico served at Taco Bell restaurants in Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Ohio, and West Virginia.
People who ate at these locations and later became sick were more likely to have eaten the shredded lettuce than those who did not. The restaurant chain has stopped serving lettuce from the supplier connected to this investigation.
However, health officials emphasize that this does not explain every Cyclospora case being reported across the country. Other outbreaks are still being investigated, and more than one contaminated food item may be responsible.
What Are the Symptoms?
Symptoms usually begin about one week after swallowing the parasite, although they can appear anywhere from two days to two weeks later.
Common symptoms include:
- Watery diarrhea that may be severe.
- Loss of appetite.
- Stomach cramps.
- Bloating.
- Nausea or vomiting.
- Fatigue.
- Weight loss.
Without treatment, symptoms can last for several weeks and may come and go. People with weakened immune systems may become more seriously ill.
How Can You Reduce Your Risk?
Because Cyclospora is commonly spread through fresh produce, it is not always possible to tell whether food is contaminated. Even produce that looks fresh and clean can carry the parasite.
The CDC recommends:
- Wash fruits and vegetables under running water before eating them.
- Wash cutting boards, knives, and countertops after preparing fresh produce.
- Peel fruits and vegetables when possible.
- Cook vegetables when appropriate, since heat kills the parasite.
- Pay attention to food recalls and public health alerts.
These steps cannot eliminate every risk, but they can help reduce exposure.
What Should You Do If You Get Sick?
If you develop diarrhea that lasts more than a few days, especially after eating fresh produce or traveling, contact your healthcare provider.
Cyclospora requires a specific laboratory test and is not always detected during routine stool testing. The infection is usually treated with the antibiotic trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (TMP-SMX). Drinking plenty of fluids is also important to prevent dehydration.
What This Means for You
The investigation is still ongoing. While the CDC has identified shredded iceberg lettuce served at certain Taco Bell restaurants as one source of illness, officials believe multiple outbreaks may be occurring at the same time.
If you develop persistent watery diarrhea, especially during the summer months, seek medical care. Early diagnosis and treatment can shorten the illness and help prevent dehydration.
Source
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Investigation update: Cyclospora outbreak, July 2026. Available from: https://www.cdc.gov/cyclosporiasis/outbreaks/07-26/investigation.html. Accessed July 24, 2026.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Cyclosporiasis outbreak, July 2026. Available from: https://www.cdc.gov/cyclosporiasis/outbreaks/07-26/index.html. Accessed July 24, 2026.
