Cyclospora Outbreak with Unknown Source Update from the CDC and FDA websites.
Overview
Cyclosporiasis is a gastrointestinal disease caused by the microscopic parasite Cyclospora.
Cyclosporiasis is a nationally notifiable disease and is reportable in 47 states, the District of
Columbia, and New York City. Even if it is not reportable in a state, it is important for healthcare
providers and the public to inform local health departments about potential cases and clusters of
the disease so that they can take appropriate action to prevent additional cases.
CDC is aware of at least 7,400 additional cases reported by state and local health departments
that are not yet laboratory confirmed and require further investigation and analysis. Many of the
additional cases have been reported by Michigan and Ohio.
Recall alert
On July 17, 2026, Taylor Farms recalled iceberg lettuce sourced from central Mexico. The
recall includes iceberg lettuce sold at retail stores and served in restaurants. It also includes
other recalled products distributed to food service customers. A list of products is included in
the recall notice.
CDC, FDA, and public health officials in several states are investigating a multistate outbreak
of Cyclospora infections linked to iceberg lettuce in 5 states. See more information on the
multistate outbreak investigation.
The FDA is still urging consumers not to eat the brand's iceberg lettuce, while Taco Bell
has announced it is no longer using the product. The company also provided a timeline
fact-checking the events, along with a statement regarding the false positive.
"We are no longer sourcing iceberg lettuce grown in central Mexico for the remainder of
the growing season," the July 20 update reads.
Wash
ď‚· Wash hands with soap and water before and after handling or preparing raw fruits and
vegetables.
Prepare
ď‚· Wash all fruits and vegetables thoroughly under running water before eating, cutting, or
cooking.
ď‚· It is important to thoroughly wash produce even if it is labeled as pre-washed.
ď‚· Scrub firm fruits and vegetables, such as melons and cucumbers, with a clean produce
brush.
ď‚· Cut away any damaged or bruised areas on fruits and vegetables before preparing and
eating.
Store
ď‚· Refrigerate cut, peeled, or cooked fruits and vegetables as soon as possible (within two
hours).
What CDC is doing
CDC monitors cyclosporiasis occurrences in the United States and helps state health departments
identify and investigate outbreaks to prevent additional cases.
Nebraska is not listed as a state that is confirmed to be linked with the Iceberg Lettuce at this
time. Iowa, Kansas and Missouri have been linked to the Iceberg lettuce recall.
Nutrition Services will keep you posted on changes.