Federal investigators probe lettuce link to cyclosporiasis

Federal health investigators are examining a potential link between shredded iceberg lettuce supplied by Taylor Farms and a multistar outbreak of cyclosporiasis, an intestinal illness caused by a microscopic parasite. The investigation is focused on lettuce served at some Taco Bell restaurants, particularly in the Midwest, as cases surge nationwide.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is tracking nearly 7,000 confirmed and suspected cases of cyclosporiasis reported since May 1, with illnesses confirmed in at least 34 states. Michigan and New York have reported the highest numbers, with Michigan alone documenting more than 4,300 cases and approximately 100 hospitalizations. Federal data indicates confirmed cases are more than six times higher than at this point last year, with at least 141 hospitalizations nationally.

While public health officials have not confirmed a specific source, a regional outbreak centered in the Midwest has been associated with lettuce. The CDC has identified at least 400 cases linked to this cluster across Michigan, Ohio, West Virginia, and Kentucky. Investigators have noted that a high percentage of ill individuals in these states reported...