Health officials are tracking a significant cyclosporiasis outbreak across the United States, with the parasite causing severe watery diarrhea in thousands of people. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports nearly 7,000 suspected cases nationwide as of mid-July 2026. Michigan leads with 3,309 confirmed cases, the largest outbreak on record in the state.
The illness stems from the Cyclospora cayetanensis parasite, which spreads through contaminated fresh produce. Symptoms often include explosive diarrhea that can last for weeks without treatment, along with bloating, nausea, fatigue, body aches, and loss of appetite. The incubation period ranges from a few days to two weeks. Most cases have occurred since late June, with no deaths reported so far and 141 hospitalizations noted since May.
Michigan Cases Drive National Surge
Michigan accounts for the bulk of confirmed infections. State health officials have interviewed over 1,000 people and point to lettuce or salad greens as likely sources in many local cases. At least 30 other states have reported clusters, though many remain under investigation. A connected multistate cluster involving at least 400 cases spans Kentucky, Michigan, Ohio, and West Virginia. No international travel links the majority of patients.
CDC data shows this season far exceeds the typical annual average of around 2,700 cases, most of which occur in summer months. Officials believe multiple outbreaks from different contaminated food sources may be occurring simultaneously.
Taco Bell Removes Ingredients as Precaution
Some Taco Bell locations in the Detroit area recently posted signs stating they could not serve lettuce, onions, pico de gallo, or guacamole. Federal and state investigators are examining whether the chain connects to any cases, though no specific link has been confirmed to Taco Bell, any ingredient, supplier, or location.
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Taco Bell responded by voluntarily and temporarily removing limited ingredients from select restaurants as a precautionary measure. Company statements emphasize that public health officials have not established any connection to its operations.
Investigators continue reviewing produce supply chains. The FDA is examining multiple fresh items, including lettuce. Past cyclosporiasis outbreaks have tied to items such as raspberries, bagged salads, cilantro, basil, green onions, and snow peas. Contamination typically happens during growing or processing, often through contaminated water or handling.
What Consumers Should Know
Cyclosporiasis spreads when people ingest the parasite from contaminated food or water. It is not person-to-person contagious in most cases. Washing fresh produce under clean running water helps reduce risk, though the parasite can resist some standard cleaning methods. Peeling items after washing or cooking them thoroughly offers additional protection.
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Doctors should consider cyclosporiasis in patients with prolonged watery diarrhea, especially during summer months. The CDC has issued alerts urging awareness. Treatment usually involves the antibiotic trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (Bactrim).
No nationwide recalls have been issued for specific products at this time. Contaminated items may already have moved through supply chains given the timing of investigations.
Health authorities continue working to identify exact sources and prevent further spread. People experiencing severe or persistent diarrhea should contact a healthcare provider promptly for testing and treatment. Staying informed through official CDC updates remains the best way to follow developments in this ongoing situation.
