2026 Multistate Outbreak of Cyclospora Infections Associated with Lettuce
In 2026, CDC, FDA, and public health officials in several states investigated an outbreak of Cyclospora infections. As of August 27, 2026 the investigation was ongoing.
One cluster of cases was identified as being associated with iceberg lettuce produced by Taylor Farms de Mexico and served at Taco Bell locations in Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Ohio and West Virginia.
Additional interview data resulted in an expanded case definition to include people who reported consuming Taylor Farms de Mexico iceberg lettuce regardless of where consumption occurred. As of August 27, 2026, the total case count was 11,458 illnesses reported from 20 states. Of note, the total number of cases reported included sick people who traveled to one of the 20 states but resided in different states. Illnesses linked to this outbreak began on June 14 and onset dates have continued through August 15, 2026. There were at least 495 hospitalizations. Two deaths were reported from Michigan.
On July 17, 2026, Taylor Farms de Mexico recalled all iceberg lettuces sourced from central Mexico. Taylor Fresh Foods' recall notice included Marketside-brand product available at Walmart.
On September 11, 2026, the CDC declared the outbreak over.
Overview
| Outbreak began: | June 2026 |
|---|---|
| Affected country: | US |
| States/territories: | AR, GA, IL, IN, IA, KS, KY, ME, MA, MI, MO, NE, NH, NC, OH, OK, PA, TN, TX, WV |
| Pathogen: | Cyclospora |
| Vehicle(s): | lettuce |
| Location(s): | Retail, Restaurant |
| Brand name(s): | Taylor Farms |
| Molecular test results: | Not reported |
Health impact
| Total ill: | 11458 |
|---|---|
| Number hospitalized: | 495 |
| Number of deaths: | 2 |
Sources & documents
| Recall notices | ||
|---|---|---|
| Report / reference links | ||
| Outbreak documents | ||