Cyclospora Outbreak Tied to Iceberg Lettuce; Recall Issued

Federal health officials tie a multistate cyclospora outbreak to iceberg lettuce and focus on Taylor Farms as the likely source, with cases nearing 2,000 and hospitalizations close to 100. The outbreak has expanded to additional states, including Illinois, Kansas, Oklahoma, and Pennsylvania, alongside previously affected areas, as investigations continue into a separate outbreak linked to Taco Bell lettuce. A recall of iceberg lettuce from central Mexico, including some Marketside products, has been issued and authorities urge consumers not to eat recalled lettuce and to discard or return it. Reports from markets and farms show rising shopper traffic and concern about safety, with some buyers trusting local produce despite the scare. Officials warn the true scope may be larger than tallies indicate since many people do not seek testing or care, and emphasize symptom awareness and reporting to help pinpoint sources. Guidance remains on thorough handwashing and, where appropriate, cooking produce to kill the parasite, while investigations work to map the full network of distribution.