News From Multiple Perspectives

Cyclosporiasis Outbreak Linked to Shredded Iceberg Lettuce Expands to Nine States

Published July 25, 2026 at 12:03 PM UTC

Authored by
Every article published on DirectionFreeNews undergoes editorial review by our editorial team. Our editors research publicly available information from multiple trusted news organizations, compare differing perspectives, verify key facts, and publish balanced summaries intended to help readers better understand important events. Our editorial process is designed to reduce editorial bias by considering multiple reputable sources rather than relying on a single viewpoint

A multistate outbreak of cyclosporiasis, a diarrheal illness caused by the parasite Cyclospora cayetanensis, has expanded to nine states, with the total case count now reaching 1,947. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has traced the outbreak to shredded iceberg lettuce, prompting investigations and recalls. The affected states include Illinois, Kansas, Oklahoma, and Pennsylvania, in addition to earlier identified states. The CDC and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) are working to identify the specific source of the contaminated lettuce and prevent further infections. Cyclosporiasis can cause severe gastrointestinal symptoms, including watery diarrhea, cramps, nausea, and fatigue, and is particularly risky for individuals with weakened immune systems. The outbreak underscores the challenges of tracing contaminated produce through complex supply chains. Consumers are advised to check for recalls and to thoroughly wash or avoid shredded iceberg lettuce until the source is confirmed. Health officials are urging anyone experiencing symptoms to seek medical care and report their illness to local health authorities. The investigation continues, with genetic testing helping to link cases to the same food source.