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U.S. Cyclospora Cases Top 2019 Record, Mostly in Michigan, With No Deaths Reported
State data show more than 4,700 cases reported across 34 states, exceeding the prior high. Michigan accounts for over 3,300 infections, with officials linking cases in four states to possible lettuce exposure.
Jul 15, 9:31 AM·1m read1 source
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U.S. cyclospora infections in 2026 have already exceeded the previous record of about 4,700 cases set in 2019, Fortune reported. More than 30 states have recorded infections, with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention confirming cases in 34 states since May 1.
The CDC health alert issued Tuesday listed 1,645 confirmed domestic cases and more than 5,100 additional cases requiring further analysis. No deaths have been reported. Federal officials said case counts are expected to rise through August because some people with milder symptoms may not seek care.
Michigan has reported more than 3,300 cases. State officials said early information from more than 1,000 patient interviews points to lettuce or salad greens as a possible source. They advised consumers to buy whole heads of lettuce, discard outer layers, wash the remainder thoroughly, and avoid bagged lettuce and pre-mixed salad kits.
Federal health officials stated that cases in Michigan, Ohio, Kentucky, and West Virginia appear linked, though patterns may differ elsewhere. On Tuesday the Taco Bell chain said it had voluntarily and temporarily removed limited ingredients at select restaurants as a precaution.
The FDA’s Acting Deputy Commissioner for Food, Donald Prater, said the agency continues traceback investigations on multiple produce items. Cyclospora is a microscopic parasite that causes watery diarrhea with frequent and sometimes explosive bowel movements. Outbreaks occur most often in late spring and summer.
