A multistate Cyclospora outbreak linked to iceberg lettuce from Taylor Farms de Mexico has grown to at least 11,458 illnesses across 20 states, with 495 hospitalizations and two deaths, according to the CDC’s latest update.
Where It Started
Illness onset dates go back to June 14, with the most recent reported onset on August 15. Investigators traced many of the illnesses to iceberg lettuce served at Taco Bell locations and sold at retail in multiple states, including Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Ohio, West Virginia, Kansas, Oklahoma, Illinois, and Pennsylvania.
The Recall
Taylor Farms de Mexico recalled all iceberg lettuce sourced from central Mexico on July 17. Investigators used Cyclospora genotyping on samples from sick patients to confirm the illnesses are genetically related and part of the same outbreak.
The Deaths
Both deaths connected to the outbreak have been reported in Michigan.
Other Clusters
The CDC and FDA are separately investigating at least six other Cyclospora clusters for which a source has not yet been confirmed.
