CDC Links Cyclosporiasis Outbreak Causing 'Explosive Diarrhea' in 5 States to This Food
According to a report by the New York Times, two federal officials, who declined to be named, told the publication that the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has identified a link in the recent outbreak of cyclosporiasis: iceberg lettuce from Taylor Farms supplied to Taco Bell.
The CDC did not publicly name Taylor Farms in its investigation, but it did say in a notice posted by the CDC on Thursday night that it, the Food and Drug Administration and other public health officials were investigating a five-state outbreak of Cyclospora infections linked to shredded iceberg lettuce served at Taco Bell locations, advising the public to avoid consuming it from Taco Bell locations in Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Ohio and West Virginia.
Per the New York Times, a spokeswoman for Taylor Farms did not return requests for comments about the CDC's recent findings. At this time, it is unknown if Taylor Farms supplied this lettuce to other vendors, according to one of the officials who spoke with the New York Times, who was "not cleared to speak for the administration."
The notice also said that the CDC would continue investigating other cyclosporiasis outbreaks and illnesses around the country that are "unrelated" to this particular outbreak.
Related: CDC Expands Investigation as Parasite Outbreak Leaves 86 Hospitalized Across 31 States
What Else to Know About the Cyclosporiasis Outbreak
The recent Cyclosporiasis outbreak has left more than 1,644 people sick, who reportedly ate at Taco Bell in the five states listed previously, according to the CDC. Common symptoms of a Cyclospora infection include:
- Watery diarrhea
- Appetite loss
- Cramping, bloating and increased gas
- Nausea
- Fatigue
According to the CDC, symptoms usually start about one week after becoming infected. Without treatment, these symptoms can last anywhere from a few days to a month or more. Do note that you may need a specific test to confirm a case of Cyclospora, as routine stool tests don't always screen for that particular parasite, as recommended by the CDC.
If you end up contracting Cyclospora, the CDC says local or state health officials may contact you to determine what you ate in the two weeks prior to your illness. If this happens, do your best to provide them with all the information you can.
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This story was originally published July 17, 2026 at 10:22 AM.