CDC expands cyclosporiasis outbreak to 15 states as nearly 23,000 cases reported across 47 states; Taco Bell removes lettuce, Taylor Farms recalls
Donald SchaffnerBruce VanderhoffGreg CasarU.S. Department of TreasuryTaylor FarmsWalmartU.S. Centers for Disease Control and PreventionU.S. Food and Drug AdministrationTaco BellU.S. Supreme CourtU.S. Court of International Trade

CDC expands cyclosporiasis outbreak to 15 states as nearly 23,000 cases reported across 47 states; Taco Bell removes lettuce, Taylor Farms recalls

The CDC has reported nearly 23,000 cases of cyclosporiasis across 47 states, with 15 states linked to a major outbreak tied to shredded iceberg lettuce from Taco Bell, prompting the fast-food chain to remove the lettuce and Taylor Farms to issue a recall.

TODAY.com TODAY.com+1 source6 August 2026 · 04:04 UTC
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The CDC has confirmed 10,468 laboratory cases and 12,255 probable cases of cyclosporiasis since May 1, with 517 hospitalizations and two deaths reported. The outbreak, affecting states like Michigan and Ohio, is linked to shredded iceberg lettuce from Taco Bell, prompting a recall from Taylor Farms.34567891314

Michigan has been particularly hard hit, reporting 12,218 cases and 193 hospitalizations. Ohio follows with over 4,000 cases, while Indiana has recorded nearly 1,349 cases. Only New Mexico, Montana, and Hawaii have reported no cases since May 1.

The recalled lettuce products were distributed to 27 states, including Alabama, Florida, and Texas. The CDC advises cooking food to at least 158 degrees Fahrenheit to kill the parasite, while washing produce can reduce but not eliminate the risk of infection.

As the FDA investigates six separate cyclospora outbreaks, the public is urged to stay informed and take precautions to avoid foodborne illnesses.

Key Insight
“Michigan is the hardest hit with 12,218 cases and 193 hospitalizations as of Aug. 5, while Ohio reports over 4,000. The FDA is investigating six separate outbreaks, and officials advise cooking food to 158°F to kill the parasite.”
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1
TODAY.comTODAY.com
“On Tuesday, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention : 10,468 laboratory-confirmed cases in the U.S. since May 1, and 12,255 probable cases that are under investigation.”
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ReutersReuters
“The court filing in the U.S. Court ‌of International Trade said that "refunds (duties plus interest) of approximately $100 billion have been completed using the Consolidated Administration and Processing of Entries Refund component, certified by the ​agency, and sent to the U.S. Department of Treasury ​for disbursement."”
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