U.S. Ends Largest Cyclosporiasis Outbreak Linked to Lettuce

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) announced the conclusion of the largest recorded multistate outbreak of cyclosporiasis, which was associated with contaminated iceberg lettuce from Taylor Farms.

This outbreak impacted 12,883 individuals across 21 states, leading to 570 hospitalizations and two fatalities. The CDC confirmed that federal investigators linked the contaminated lettuce to Taylor Farms, but noted that the affected products are no longer available in stores or restaurants.

Recent infections have significantly declined, and there is currently no risk of contracting cyclosporiasis from the implicated lettuce. All affected products have surpassed their expiry dates and are off the market.

This outbreak accounted for over half of the 19,595 laboratory-confirmed cyclosporiasis cases reported in the U.S. since May 1, marking 2026 as the worst year on record for this parasite-borne illness. Michigan was notably affected, reporting over 14,000 cases and two deaths.