Note: This article will be updated as new information becomes available.
The CDC is investigating the largest-ever U.S. outbreak of Cyclosporiasis, an intestinal illness that can cause weeks of severe diarrhea, receiving over 7,400 reports across 41 U.S. states as of July 24, 2026.
The agency has confirmed about 4,100 cases of people becoming sick after eating food in the U.S, including 308 hospitalizations. The actual numbers are likely higher, since cases can take weeks to confirm and some people recover without medical care.
The CDC typically counts about 2,800 Cyclospora cases a year, mostly during the summer. This year’s spike comes after the agency removed mandatory tracking of the Cyclospora parasite in July 2025, due to budget cuts from the Trump administration.
Cases are expected to rise through August. No deaths have been reported.
Where are the largest outbreaks?
Individual states can count cases differently and have reported higher numbers than the CDC. Michigan has recorded the largest outbreak, with state officials investigating over 9,000 cases and 160 hospitalizations as of July 27.
Investigators believe the Michigan outbreak is connected to cases in Ohio, West Virginia, Kentucky, and Indiana. Other states with higher than usual numbers are New York, North Carolina, Illinois, and Texas.
How is Cyclosporiasis spread?
Cyclosporiasis is contracted by consuming food or water contaminated with the feces of a person infected by the Cyclospora parasite.
Fruits and vegetables usually get infected during the agricultural process, when contaminated water is used to grow, clean, or wash produce. Past cases have been linked to bagged salad mixes, cilantro, basil, raspberries, snow peas, and green onions.
What caused the current outbreak?
CDC officials believe multiple outbreaks are likely happening at once and have not confirmed any specific food items as a source.
The FDA initially traced the Michigan outbreak to shredded iceberg lettuce supplied by Taylor Farms to various Taco Bell locations, but said that test was a false positive on July 19.
What are the symptoms?
Cyclosporiasis typically causes watery diarrhea with frequent bowel movements that are sometimes explosive or uncontrollable. Symptoms usually appear in about a week and can last anywhere from a few days to over a month.
Common symptoms are cramps, nausea, bloating, unusually bad gas, weight loss, and loss of appetite. Some people experience flu-like symptoms, including severe fatigue and body aches.
Dehydration can become a serious issue, particularly among the elderly, young children, and people with compromised immune systems. See a doctor if you are experiencing any symptoms, and drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated.
How can I avoid getting sick?
The best way to avoid Cyclosporiasis is to follow safe food-handling practices and avoid consuming food or water that may have been contaminated with feces.
Wash hands with soap and water before and after eating or cooking. Thoroughly wash fruits and vegetables under running water, even if they are labeled as pre-washed.
Michigan officials have encouraged consumers to cook vegetables to an internal temperature of at least 158 degrees Fahrenheit, and to avoid precut greens and pre-packaged salads. Whole, uncut produce typically undergoes less handling.
The CDC has advised the public not to eat at Taco Bell locations in Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Ohio, and West Virginia.