FDA Links Diarrhea Parasite Outbreak To Lettuce From Taco Bell

WASHINGTON — The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) announced in a press release that they’re investigating the outbreak of cyclospora illnesses linked to shredded iceberg lettuce served at Taco Bell locations in Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Ohio and West Virginia.

The FDA reports that 1,644 people have been infected with cyclosporiasis during this outbreak, and people with confirmed illness have reported exposure to Taco Bell in all five states. Illnesses started on dates ranging from May 13, 2026, to July 13, 2026. There have been 94 hospitalizations and no reported deaths so far.

The suspected lettuce products come from Mexico and are used at Taco Bell locations in the five states listed and possibly beyond. According to the FDA’s release, Taco Bell has committed to immediately stop using any lettuce from suppliers identified in the investigation.

At least 32 cases of cyclosporiasis have been reported in Maryland, although the actual number is likely to be higher. It’s unclear whether the Maryland cases could be related to these particular supplies or lettuce.

As for other states experiencing cyclosporiasis illness, the FDA wrote, “FDA is aware that the case counts in this advisory may not match what is being reported by individual states. State data may include both probable and confirmed cases, while CDC and FDA include confirmed cases only. State case counts may also include initial case reports that have not yet been reported to CDC. As cases are confirmed, these numbers will continue to update.”

Symptoms of cyclosporiasis generally appear one to 14 days after consuming contaminated food or water and can last for weeks if left untreated. Symptoms include profuse, watery and sometimes explosive diarrhea, severe abdominal cramping and bloating, extreme fatigue and loss of appetite, as well as nausea, vomiting and a low-grade fever.

Maryland residents can stay up to date on the illness by following the Department of Health on social media or online.

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