US Lettuce Alarm: Cyclospora Spreads to 3 More States

The Cyclospora outbreak linked to iceberg lettuce in the United States continues to spread. Federal health officials announced that cases associated with the parasitic disease have also been identified in Georgia, Tennessee, and Texas. Thus, the total number of states linked to the outbreak has risen to 20.

The outbreak spread to three more states, bringing the case count to 11,458.

According to the latest FDA data, a total of 11,458 Cyclospora cases have been reported across 20 states. While CDC and state health officials continue to interview patients to identify new cases, the investigation into the outbreak proceeds.

Suspected Product: Iceberg Lettuce

The focus of the federal investigation is processed iceberg lettuce produced in central Mexico and supplied by Taylor Farms in Mexico. Officials said that some of the affected individuals purchased the product from various retail outlets or consumed it in restaurants.

A Taco Bell connection had emerged.

In the investigation during the first stage of the outbreak, a link was established between disease cases associated with shredded iceberg lettuce served at Taco Bell restaurants in Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Ohio, and West Virginia. In its first warning on July 17, the CDC had stated that more than 1.644 people had become ill in those five states and 94 had been hospitalized.

Recall Was Made in July

Taylor Farms recalled the Mexico-sourced iceberg lettuce following the investigation. The CDC notes that the recalled products have passed their expiration dates and that these items should no longer be found in stores or restaurants.

FDA Examining Production Facility

The FDA announced that it was conducting on-site inspections and sampling at Taylor Farms' Mexican facility. The agency said it was working in coordination with Mexican authorities and was confident that the outbreak-related recalled iceberg lettuce had been removed from the market.

Disease Originates from a Parasite

Cyclospora, a microscopic parasite that can cause intestinal infection in humans. The infection leads to a disease called cyclosporiasis and can manifest especially with digestive system symptoms.

CDC, FDA, and state health agencies are continuing their work to identify new cases and uncover the scope of the outbreak. Officials assess that the investigation may not be limited only to the states identified so far.