WASHINGTON – Federal health officials have expanded an investigation into a major cyclosporiasis outbreak to 15 states, adding Arkansas, Iowa, Missouri, Nebraska, New Hampshire and North Carolina to the affected area.
The Washington Post reported that illnesses in the expanded outbreak have been traced to shredded iceberg lettuce sourced from central Mexico. Federal and state investigators are examining distribution records and other evidence to determine how widely the product moved through the food supply.
The Food and Drug Administration has separately investigated a multistate cluster linked to shredded iceberg lettuce served at Taco Bell locations. The agency identified a supplier and advised people with symptoms to contact a health care provider, particularly if they ate shredded iceberg lettuce before becoming ill.
Cyclosporiasis is caused by a microscopic parasite. Symptoms can include frequent watery diarrhea, stomach cramps, nausea, fatigue and loss of appetite. Illness can last for weeks or return after appearing to improve, but prescription treatment is available.
Consumers should follow recall notices and guidance from federal, state and local health departments. Washing produce can reduce some risks but may not remove Cyclospora completely, according to public-health guidance.
Source: The Washington Post and FDA, Aug. 4, 2026.
