The states with the highest cyclospora cases in 2026 are highlighted. Federal health officials are investigating a new outbreak while tracking a record surge in the U.S.
On July 22, the FDA announced an investigation into a second cyclospora outbreak, affecting 72 individuals. The food linked to the illnesses remains unidentified. Days earlier, another outbreak was traced to shredded iceberg lettuce from Taylor Farms de Mexico, served at Taco Bell sites in Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Ohio, and West Virginia.
The parasite-caused gastrointestinal illness is reported across multiple states, though not all are from the same source. The CDC noted more than 4,000 confirmed cases since May 1 across 41 states, with over 7,000 additional reports pending.
Cyclospora Hotspots
Michigan reports the most cases, with 7,171 and 102 hospitalizations as of July 22. Ohio follows with over 2,200 cases and dozens hospitalized. Indiana, New York, Kentucky, and Oklahoma report 594, 517, 192, and 172 cases respectively. CDC data confirms cases across 41 states, but state totals include probable cases as well. The CDC assumes a 6-week lag between a diagnosis and case reporting.
Reported cases may be higher due to unverified recovery without medical care.
New Outbreak Under Investigation
The FDA’s newly identified outbreak involves 72 individuals. The source has not been found. Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. said the major lettuce-linked outbreak is “under control” after the source was identified, prompting product removal. An HHS spokesperson mentioned ongoing investigations to identify linked products, retailers, restaurants, or distribution routes.
Five-State Outbreak
Federal health officials traced shredded iceberg lettuce from Taco Bell in five states as the outbreak source. Taylor Farms voluntarily recalled all central Mexico-sourced iceberg lettuce on July 17. The FDA reported the affected lettuce samples were false positives. Taco Bell removed the lettuce nationwide. Michigan reports some ill individuals hadn’t eaten at Taco Bell, leading to wider investigation.
Taco Bell’s Response
Following the outbreak, Taco Bell announced $1 lettuce-free Enchiritos on July 22. Comprising a tortilla with beef, beans, onions, cheese, and sauce, the item is temporary.
Understanding Cyclosporiasis
Cyclosporiasis results from the Cyclospora cayetanensis parasite. Symptoms appear within two to fourteen days post-exposure, including diarrhea, cramps, nausea, and fatigue. Symptoms persist without treatment, sometimes recurring.
Consumer Advice
Health officials advise thorough washing of fruits and vegetables, and caution with pre-cut produce. Cooking produce to 158°F (70°C) reliably kills the parasite. Consumers with symptoms post-produce consumption should seek medical attention. CDC notes ages 2-95 are affected, with 44 as the mean age.
Further investigations are necessary to link products or distribution channels to illnesses. Contact Newsweek editors on this story: Matthew Robinson and Cristina Diciu.