Cyclospora Parasite Spreads Across 45 U.S. States! Outbreak Causes 2 Deaths, Nearly 7,000 Cases — CDC Warns Even 'Pre-Washed' Bagged Salad Should Be Rinsed

A serious Cyclospora parasite outbreak has hit the United States, with health officials in Michigan — one of the hardest-hit states — confirming the first two deaths linked to the infection. This parasite, transmitted through contaminated food or water, causes severe diarrhea. The outbreak has now spread to 45 states nationwide, with nearly 7,000 laboratory-confirmed cases reported.

According to Michigan’s Department of Health and Human Services, as cited by BBC, both deceased patients had underlying "chronic conditions," and their Cyclospora infection and subsequent severe dehydration likely worsened their pre-existing illnesses. While the confirmation of fatalities may trigger anxiety on social media, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) continues to emphasize that Cyclospora infections are typically "not life-threatening" and that deaths are extremely rare.

Michigan, the epicenter of this outbreak, has officially reported over 11,000 suspected and confirmed cases, with 193 people hospitalized.

Cyclospora is an intestinal parasite that thrives in warm, moist environments and spreads primarily through the fecal-oral route. In the past, outbreaks have often occurred when fruits and vegetables were grown using irrigation water contaminated with feces.

Source Traced to Taylor Farms Lettuce from Mexico

Investigations by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the CDC indicate that this year’s large-scale outbreak is strongly linked to iceberg lettuce imported from Taylor Farms de Mexico. This farm is a major supplier of fresh produce to numerous well-known restaurant chains and retail outlets across the U.S.

One of the affected fast-food chains is Taco Bell, familiar to many readers. The company recently announced it has completely halted the use and removed all lettuce supplied by this vendor. Taylor Farms itself has initiated a preventive voluntary recall of its romaine lettuce sourced from central Mexico. Due to recent cases among international travelers returning home, UK health authorities have also issued travel and food safety warnings.

Regarding protective measures for fresh produce, the CDC recommends thoroughly rinsing all fruits and vegetables under running water before eating — including those labeled as "pre-washed" bagged salads. The CDC further warns that simply rinsing with water may not fully remove Cyclospora oocysts attached to the surface of produce. The most effective method to kill the parasite is cooking the produce at temperatures of at least 70°C (158°F), which ensures food safety.