CDC logs 4,173 cyclospora cases, recalls Taylor lettuce

Federal health officials are grappling with a significant and expanding outbreak of the parasitic illness cyclosporiasis, with the investigation focused on shredded lettuce from a major supplier despite conflicting international assessments and a recent false positive test result. As of July 20, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has confirmed 4,173 cases and over 300 hospitalizations, a sharp increase from earlier tallies. State health departments, primarily in Michigan and Ohio, are reporting thousands of additional cases under investigation.

The Food and Drug Administration's traceback investigation continues to converge on shredded iceberg lettuce from Taylor Farms locations in central Mexico. This lettuce was supplied to various U.S. food chains, including Taco Bell locations initially linked to the outbreak. In response, Taylor Farms announced a voluntary recall on July 18 of 25 shredded lettuce and salad mix products sold under eight brand codes across 27 states. The company stated it would not source iceberg lettuce from central Mexico for the rest of the growing season.

The investigation encountered a complication over the weekend when the FDA announced a...