Health
Cyclospora Outbreak Sickens Thousands Across 15 States
The largest cyclospora outbreak on record has expanded to 15 states, with over 10,000 confirmed cases linked to shredded iceberg lettuce from Taylor Farms, a major produce supplier.
The parasite, which causes diarrhea, has sickened thousands this summer, with infections traced to lettuce sourced from central Mexico. Missouri, Arkansas, Iowa, Nebraska, New Hampshire, and North Carolina joined nine other states reporting cases tied to Taco Bell, which received lettuce from Taylor Farms. Missouri has over 1,000 cases, and patients reported eating at Taco Bell before falling ill, according to state health officials.
The CDC has confirmed 10,468 cases as of Tuesday, with 12,255 more pending, over 500 hospitalizations, and two deaths in Michigan, both with underlying conditions. Taylor Farms recalled all central Mexico-sourced iceberg lettuce on July 17, though a subsequent test was deemed a false positive. The FDA maintains the recall is supported by epidemiological data.
Taco Bell's sales dipped about 2% in the current quarter, which parent company Yum Brands attributed to the outbreak. The recall was issued because the lettuce had the potential to be contaminated with Cyclospora.
Source: Independent World
