CDC reports nearly 14,000 cyclosporiasis cases linked to lettuce outbreak

In the United States, a significant outbreak of cyclosporiasis has been reported, with nearly 14,000 laboratory-confirmed cases since May 1, 2026. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) announced that as of August 10, 2026, 13,895 cases have been documented, with at least 740 hospitalizations and two fatalities. The outbreak has been primarily associated with processed iceberg lettuce sourced from central Mexico, which has raised concerns about food safety and public health. The CDC is actively investigating multiple clusters of infections, indicating that the outbreak may not be limited to the known cases.

The increase in cases is alarming, especially when compared to previous years. For instance, only 1,180 cases were reported nationwide during the same period in 2025. The current outbreak has seen a rapid rise in confirmed cases, with an increase of 3,427 cases reported in just one week. Health officials have noted that the true number of infections could be higher, as there is a reporting lag of about six weeks between when individuals first feel ill and when cases are reported to the CDC. This delay suggests that the number of cases may continue to rise in the coming weeks.

The demographic data of those affected shows a wide age range, from 1 to 98 years old, with a median age of 45. Notably, 57 percent of the patients are female. The symptoms of cyclosporiasis include prolonged watery diarrhea, stomach cramps, nausea, fatigue, and loss of appetite, which can lead to severe dehydration, particularly in vulnerable populations. The two reported deaths occurred in Michigan, where both individuals had significant underlying health conditions that may have exacerbated their illnesses.

As the outbreak continues to unfold, health officials are urging consumers to be cautious about the consumption of processed iceberg lettuce and are working to trace the distribution of the contaminated product. The CDC's investigation is ongoing, and they are collaborating with state health departments to monitor the situation closely. The outbreak has prompted a voluntary recall of the implicated lettuce, but officials warn that the situation may evolve as more information becomes available. The public is advised to stay informed and report any symptoms of illness to healthcare providers promptly.