Health officials in more than 30 states are investigating a surge in cyclosporiasis, a parasitic infection that has reached record levels in the United States. Data from state departments indicates that case counts for 2026 have surpassed the previous record of approximately 4,700 set in 2019. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported 1,645 confirmed domestic cases and over 5,100 additional cases under analysis as of mid-July.
Michigan has reported the highest concentration of illnesses, with more than 3,300 cases. Local health officials stated that interviews with patients frequently identified lettuce or salad greens as a common food consumed before illness began. Consequently, Michigan's health department has advised consumers to wash heads of lettuce thoroughly and avoid pre-mixed salad kits while the investigation continues.
In response to the outbreak, the restaurant chain Taco Bell announced it has voluntarily and temporarily removed certain ingredients from select locations as a precaution. U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) officials stated they are conducting traceback investigations on several produce items and locations reported by patients, though they have not definitively named a single source for the nationwide spike.
Cyclosporiasis is caused by a microscopic parasite that infects the intestinal tract, typically resulting in watery diarrhea. The CDC noted that while the illness is treatable with antibiotics and is rarely life-threatening, cases often increase during the spring and summer months. Experts attribute the rise in reported cases to improved detection methods and environmental factors.