Cyclospora Outbreak 2026 Foods to Avoid and Map as 45 States Hit With Parasite Cases - TODAY.com

What the report says

TODAY reported that a nationwide rise in cyclosporiasis cases has reached an estimated 18,000 confirmed or probable infections across 45 states since May 1, with at least 423 hospitalizations and no deaths reported. The illness is caused by Cyclospora cayetanensis, a microscopic intestinal parasite associated with contaminated food or water, and typically increases in the United States during summer months. This year’s total is far above the usual annual level cited in the report.

According to TODAY, federal officials have linked a large multistate outbreak in the Midwest to shredded iceberg lettuce served at Taco Bell, though investigations are continuing. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said the outbreak has expanded to nine states: Indiana, Kentucky, Ohio, Michigan, West Virginia, Illinois, Kansas, Oklahoma and Pennsylvania. The Food and Drug Administration and CDC identified lettuce supplied by Taylor Farms as a possible source, and Taylor Fresh Foods voluntarily recalled iceberg lettuce products sourced from central Mexico. TODAY reported that the recall included products sent to restaurants and retailers, including some Walmart Marketside items.

Michigan has reported the largest number of cases, with more than 10,000 infections and 160 hospitalizations, according to state data cited by TODAY. Ohio, Indiana, North Carolina, New York, Illinois and Missouri have also reported substantial case counts. North Carolina officials have separately indicated that fresh parsley and cilantro may be connected to rising cases there.

TODAY noted that tracking Cyclospora outbreaks can be difficult because symptoms may take up to two weeks to appear and many infections are never tested. Health officials say more than one contaminated food or water source may be involved, and additional restaurants, brands or distribution channels could still be identified.