Cyclospora outbreak infects 11,276 across 46 US states; Taylor Farms recalls lettuce in 27 states

The Midwest remains the epicenter of a growing outbreak of cyclosporiasis, a parasitic infection that can cause weeks of watery diarrhea.

According to Georgetown University's Health Security Operations Center, which tracks state and national-level data, at least 11,276 cases of cyclosporiasis have been reported across 46 states in 2026.

Confusion Over Case Counts

Several factors are contributing to confusion in the outbreak, including discrepancies between state and federal case counts and how the FDA and Taylor Farms have shared information about the suspected source of infections.

• The CDC reported in its latest cyclosporiasis update on July 15 that it had confirmed 1,645 domestic cases and was aware of more than 5,100 cases requiring further analysis for confirmation.
• Some state health departments are tallying cases as part of the ongoing outbreak, while others include all cases reported in 2026 in their figures.
• According to the CDC, the typical cyclospora season lasts until late August, and cases could continue to rise until then.

Geographic Distribution

The states with the most known cases include Michigan and Ohio. Overall, data shows the bulk of cases have been identified in the Midwest and mid-Atlantic states.

Dr. Katelyn Jetelina, assistant professor adjunct of epidemiology at Yale School of Public Health, wrote in her public health newsletter Your Local Epidemiologist on July 21 that several outbreaks are running simultaneously, including one suspected to be caused by cilantro in New York. She described the Midwest outbreak as "its own beast" that had not yet begun to slow down.

Recall and Investigation

On Friday, Taylor Farms voluntarily recalled iceberg lettuce sourced from central Mexico. The company advised consumers who purchased iceberg lettuce distributed June 29 through July 16 in the following states not to consume it and to throw it out:

• Alabama, Arkansas, Connecticut, Florida, Georgia, Iowa, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Massachusetts, Maryland, Michigan, Missouri, Mississippi, North Carolina, New Hampshire, New Jersey, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia, and Wisconsin.

The FDA stated in an update to its website on Sunday: "Do not eat recalled iceberg lettuce from Taylor Farms de Mexico. FDA's investigation is ongoing."

However, other foods cannot yet be ruled out as potential sources.

Jetelina noted that iceberg lettuce was recalled in 27 states "due to a combination of the complexity of food distribution networks and continued uncertainty around where people are most impacted."

Outlook: "When Will This End?"

Addressing the question of when the outbreak might conclude, Jetelina said: "No one knows. Either the contaminated food works its way out of circulation, or it takes a few weeks, the temperatures get cool, and the parasites no longer mature on produce (basically killing themselves off). It's hard to tell from the data alone if this outbreak is coming to a close given that it's significantly delayed."

How to Avoid Cyclospora

Cyclospora spreads through contaminated food and water. Symptoms—including watery diarrhea, nausea, and stomach cramps—can take up to two weeks to appear, making it difficult to trace the source.

• The parasite is resistant to disinfectants, and washing food does not guarantee its removal, as it adheres strongly to produce.
• Health authorities recommend cooking foods to at least 158°F (70°C) to kill the parasite.
• For those who are more risk-tolerant, buying whole heads of lettuce and peeling back the outer layer of leaves is considered a safer option than choosing pre-washed, bagged, or pre-mixed salads.