CDC Links Virus to Taco Bell Lettuce

The Centers for Disease Control (CDC), Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and public health officials in several states are investigating a multistate outbreak of Cyclospora infections linked to shredded iceberg lettuce served at Taco Bell locations in 5 states.

The agencies warn people to not eat shredded iceberg lettuce from Taco Bell locations in Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Ohio, and West Virginia. CDC is also investigating other outbreaks and illnesses of cyclosporiasis nationally that are unrelated to this outbreak.

Key Points From CDC:

• Over 1,644 people in 5 states have been infected with Cyclospora. Illnesses have been reported from Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Ohio, and West Virginia.
• Ninety-four people have been hospitalized, and no deaths have been reported.
• The illnesses have been linked to shredded iceberg lettuce served at Taco Bell locations in Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Ohio, and West Virginia.
• FDA’s traceback investigation has identified a single supplier of iceberg lettuce from Mexico used by the Taco Bell locations where sick people ate.
• Shredded iceberg lettuce sold in grocery stores or served in other restaurants is not affected.
• This alert only includes illnesses that are lab confirmed and have been linked to this product, not all cyclosporiasis illnesses being reported to and by CDC.

What You Should Do:

• Do not eat shredded iceberg lettuce served at Taco Bell locations in Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Ohio, and West Virginia.
• If you have symptoms of cyclosporiasis, contact your healthcare provider to receive care and report symptoms.
• You may need to specifically request that your healthcare provider test you for Cyclospora.

Cyclosporiasis Symptoms:

• Some people may not experience symptoms.
• Symptoms can include watery diarrhea, loss of appetite, and weight loss.
• Symptoms usually begin about one week after becoming infected.
• Without treatment, symptoms can last anywhere from a few days to a month or longer.
• If you have symptoms, stay well hydrated.