CDC Reports 1,645 Cyclosporiasis Cases Across 34 States; No Deaths Confirmed

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention confirmed 1,645 cases of cyclosporiasis across 34 states as of Tuesday, July 14. The outbreak began in May and has resulted in 141 hospitalizations with no deaths reported. The Food and Drug Administration traced iceberg lettuce from Mexico supplied by Taylor Farms to Taco Bell locations in five states.

Investigators identified shredded iceberg lettuce from the supplier as a potential contamination source. Taco Bell voluntarily removed lettuce, cilantro, onion, pico de gallo and guacamole from menus at select Detroit-area restaurants on Tuesday, July 14. The company described the action as a precautionary measure.

Michigan reported 4,312 confirmed cases and 102 hospitalizations as of Thursday, July 16, including 600 additional cases recorded that day. State health officials identified lettuce and salad greens as a potential source after more than 1,000 interviews with people who tested positive. The CDC announced an investigation into more than 400 cases in Michigan, Ohio, West Virginia and Kentucky.

The agency is examining roughly 5,100 additional possible cases. The parasite's incubation period, which can reach two weeks, has slowed source confirmation.