Cyclospora Linked to Mexican Iceberg Lettuce: 11,458 Cases Across 20 U.S. States

The CDC is investigating a multistate Cyclospora outbreak linked to iceberg lettuce. The latest figures are 11,458 infections, 495 hospitalizations, 2 deaths, and 20 affected states. Here is what the newly included states, the Taylor Farms de Mexico recall, and the FDA’s Class I classification mean, along with information about testing when symptoms occur.

The CDC said on August 27, 2026, that it was investigating a multistate Cyclospora outbreak linked to iceberg lettuce. The latest figures are 11,458 infections, 495 hospitalizations, 2 deaths, and 20 affected states. The states added to the previous count are Georgia, Tennessee, and Texas.

Key Changes

The most notable change in this update is that the number of affected states has risen to 20. However, the increase in the number of states alone does not establish that infections recently occurred in those areas. There may be delays between when food was consumed, when symptoms began, when testing was performed, and when cases were reported to public health authorities.

The case count may also change as investigations and reporting continue. The current figures should therefore be understood as the latest official outbreak count, with the possibility that they may change in subsequent CDC updates.

Latest official figures: 11,458 infections, 495 hospitalizations, 2 deaths, and 20 affected states

Current Status

The FDA said public health authorities linked iceberg lettuce supplied by Taylor Farms de Mexico from central Mexico to the outbreak. Taylor Farms de Mexico voluntarily recalled iceberg lettuce from central Mexico from the U.S. market on July 17, 2026. The FDA recall notice also included product distributed to Taco Bell.

The FDA classified the recall as Class I on August 28. However, this classification does not mean that the recall scope was expanded or that a new recall notice was issued. The FDA explained that the original recall notice posted on July 17 remains in effect. In other words, the recall’s risk classification should be distinguished from the actual scope of the products being recalled.

The FDA and CDC have advised that the use-by dates for the recalled Taylor Farms iceberg lettuce have passed and that it is not expected to remain in stores or restaurants. This information describes the supply-chain connection involving specific recalled lettuce; it does not mean that all lettuce from Mexico was contaminated. It also does not mean that all Taco Bell menu items or all Taco Bell locations were sources of infection.

Confirmed Supply-Chain Scope

Related food: Iceberg lettuce
Supplier: Taylor Farms de Mexico
Supply region: Central Mexico
Recall date: July 17, 2026
Distribution guidance: Included product supplied to Taco Bell
Recall classification: FDA Class I

Impact and Symptoms

Cyclospora can cause watery diarrhea, fatigue, and loss of appetite. Symptoms may typically begin about one week after infection, but they can appear anywhere from 2 days to more than 2 weeks later. If untreated, symptoms may last from several days to more than a month.

Cyclospora infection cannot be confirmed based on symptoms alone. The CDC advises that routine stool testing may not always screen for this parasite, so people with relevant symptoms can ask a healthcare provider about Cyclospora testing.

If watery diarrhea or fatigue continues and you are concerned about when you recently ate certain foods and when symptoms began, it is important to explain your symptoms and food history to a healthcare provider. The testing method and whether treatment is needed will be determined by the healthcare provider.

If watery diarrhea persists or symptoms are concerning, do not rely on symptoms alone; ask a healthcare provider whether Cyclospora testing may be appropriate.

When to Check Again

Because this outbreak investigation is ongoing, the numbers of infections, hospitalizations, deaths, and affected states may change in future updates. Consumers should check the CDC’s Cyclospora outbreak guidance and the FDA’s Taylor Farms de Mexico recall notice for the latest information.

There are four key items to check. First, the latest counts for affected states and infections. Second, the recalled products and use-by-date information. Third, whether the recall classification represents an actual change in the recall scope. Fourth, whether people with symptoms should consult a healthcare provider about Cyclospora testing.

Based on the official guidance currently available, the recalled lettuce is not expected to remain on the market. However, figures and guidance in food-safety incidents can change. The latest CDC and FDA pages should be checked again immediately before publication.