Cyclosporiasis Outbreak Linked to Iceberg Lettuce Spreads to Four Additional States, CDC Reports
The CDC has identified four additional states affected by a cyclosporiasis outbreak linked to iceberg lettuce from central Mexico.
Seattle Tacoma, WA, July 24, 2026 —
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has announced that a cyclosporiasis outbreak, linked to iceberg lettuce from central Mexico, has now impacted four additional states. The agency has not provided the names of these newly identified states, nor has it specified the total number of cases associated with the outbreak in these areas.
Cyclosporiasis is an intestinal illness caused by the microscopic parasite Cyclospora cayetanensis. Individuals typically become infected by consuming food or water contaminated with the parasite. Symptoms often include diarrhea, loss of appetite, weight loss, stomach cramps, bloating, gas, nausea, and fatigue. Some individuals may also experience vomiting and a low-grade fever. The illness can be treated with antibiotics.
The CDC has been investigating this outbreak and has previously identified other states affected by the contaminated lettuce. The exact number of illnesses, hospitalizations, or any fatalities connected to the outbreak across all affected states has not been fully detailed by the agency. Further information regarding the specific timeline of the outbreak and the geographical spread is expected to be released by the CDC as the investigation continues.
Health officials are advising consumers to exercise caution and to follow food safety guidelines. The source of the contamination has been traced to iceberg lettuce harvested in central Mexico. Retailers have been alerted, and recalls may be initiated if the lettuce is still present in the supply chain.
The CDC has not provided a specific date for when the initial cases were identified or when the four additional states were confirmed to be affected by this particular outbreak. Information regarding the total number of individuals affected nationwide or in the newly identified states was not immediately available.
Story summarized from the original created by Jason.Gunn@fox.com (Jason Gunn) on www.fox13seattle.com, see more information here.
