An outbreak of the parasite Cyclospora, whose most common symptom is very severe or “explosive” diarrhea, has already caused nearly 5,000 cases in the United States. For now, it is unknown which foods may have caused this outbreak, although authorities are investigating the franchise Taco Bell’s connection to it.
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So far, most infections have occurred in the state of Michigan, where the state Department of Health and Human Services reports 3,309 infections, including 44 hospitalizations, noting that lettuce and other vegetables could be part of the source. The second most affected is Ohio, where health authorities report 1,119 positive cases in the northwest of the state.
New York has also recorded approximately 470 cases statewide, adding to a list of nearly 30 states investigating possible outbreaks, such as California, Texas, Florida, Illinois, Georgia, and Colorado.
Taco Bell withdraws raw vegetables at several of its locations during the outbreak
The Center for Infectious Disease Research and Policy (CIDRAP) at the University of Minnesota has warned that the true number of cases is actually unknown because since July 2025, Cyclospora tracking is optional.
This pathogen causes gastrointestinal illnesses that can last more than a month. Regarding the investigation, Taco Bell reported that it removed some ingredients in certain restaurants as a precautionary measure despite the origin not being confirmed.
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The fast food franchise announced at several of its locations that it would not use products such as lettuce, cilantro, onion, guacamole, and pico de gallo amid the outbreak.
The parasite causes cyclosporiasis, an infection that can last days or weeks, with symptoms such as “explosive diarrhea,” anorexia, weight loss, cramps, flatulence, nausea, fever, and widespread muscle pain.
The American Medical Association recommends washing hands, especially after using the bathroom, changing diapers, or caring for someone who is sick, as well as washing foods “thoroughly” and refrigerating them shortly after cutting.
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