US Cyclospora Outbreak Linked to Lettuce

The United States is experiencing its largest recorded outbreak of cyclosporiasis, a parasitic intestinal illness caused by Cyclospora cayetanensis. As of mid-August 2026, over 25,000 cases have been reported across 47 states, with United States — Michigan the hardest hit (over 12,000 cases). The CDC has linked the outbreak to shredded iceberg lettuce from Taylor Farms' central Mexico operations, served at Yum! Brands — Taco Bell restaurants. Taylor Farms issued a recall of affected lettuce. Two deaths in United States — Michigan, both with underlying conditions, are the first reported in the outbreak. The FDA is tracking five separate cyclospora outbreaks, with the lettuce-linked one being the largest. Public health officials have noted that federal funding cuts have hampered outbreak response and surveillance. The outbreak has impacted consumer confidence in lettuce and restaurant visits, affecting companies like Yum! Brands (Yum! Brands — Taco Bell), Sweetgreen, Cava Group, and Chipotle. A securities class action investigation has been launched against Yum! Brands by Pomerantz LLP.