Multistate Cyclospora Outbreak Sickens Thousands as CDC Hunts Source

United States health authorities are investigating a rapidly expanding multistate outbreak of domestically acquired cyclosporiasis that has sickened thousands since May 1, 2026. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has received reports of 1,645 laboratory-confirmed cases across 34 states and is reviewing more than 5,100 additional suspected infections for confirmation of domestic acquisition. About 9% of confirmed patients with available information, 141 people, have been hospitalized, and no deaths have been reported. Case-patients range in age from 2 to 95 years, with a median age of 44 years, and 56% are female. CDC officials say the current national case count far exceeds the 249 infections reported by the same time last year and warn that confirmed totals may continue to rise as laboratory results and national reporting lag behind state data. Michigan has emerged as the center of the outbreak, with state health officials recording more than 3,300 cases, compared with a typical annual total of 40 to 50. The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services says interviews with more than 1,000 patients point to leafy lettuce or salad greens as the leading suspected source, although investigators have not ruled out other foods. Federal and state agencies are examining multiple fresh produce items and are assessing whether ingredients used at Taco Bell restaurants are linked to some infections. Taco Bell has temporarily removed lettuce, cilantro, onions, pico de gallo and guacamole from select outlets, including in the Detroit area, following a nationwide recall notice, but officials say they have not identified any single supplier, farm or product as the source of contamination.