Iowa among 15 states hit by cyclospora outbreak linked to Taylor Farms iceberg lettuce

Federal health officials have added Iowa to a growing list of states affected by a cyclospora outbreak tied to iceberg lettuce from Taylor Farms. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention confirmed Wednesday that the parasite has now sickened people in 15 states, with Iowa among the newly added states.

The outbreak, which has already caused two deaths in Michigan, is the largest cyclospora outbreak in U.S. history. More than 25,000 cases have been reported nationwide, with Michigan alone accounting for over 12,000 infections. The CDC says the contaminated lettuce was served at Taco Bell and sourced from Taylor Farms locations in central Mexico.

Taylor Farms has recalled the iceberg lettuce grown in that region. The Food and Drug Administration initially reported a false positive on a sample from Taylor Farms but later clarified that the evidence continues to point to shredded iceberg lettuce from those facilities.

How does cyclospora spread and what are the symptoms?

Cyclospora is a microscopic parasite that infects the bowels and spreads through feces. It causes watery diarrhea, often with frequent and explosive bowel movements. The illness, known as cyclosporiasis, is less common than salmonella or E. coli but can be severe, especially for people with weakened immune systems.

Outbreaks typically occur in late spring and summer. Symptoms can take weeks to appear after exposure, making it difficult to trace the source. The CDC notes that many cyclospora cases are never linked to a specific food.

Why is this outbreak so hard to control?

Dr. Juan Luis Marquez, medical director of the Washtenaw County and Livingston County health departments in Michigan, said several factors make cyclospora outbreaks challenging. It can take weeks between exposure and symptoms, the parasite is hard to analyze in labs, and interviewing every sick person to find common exposures is labor-intensive.

Marquez also pointed to staffing cuts at all levels of public health. There are fewer resources and less capacity to investigate outbreaks quickly.

Dr. Ulysses Wu, chief epidemiologist for Hartford HealthCare, told CBS News that the outbreak may not be under control yet. Even if this lettuce is the source, other produce could also be involved.

What should Iowans do to stay safe?

Iowans should check their refrigerators for any recalled iceberg lettuce from Taylor Farms. If you have eaten at Taco Bell recently and developed diarrhea, especially watery or explosive diarrhea, contact your healthcare provider. The CDC recommends washing hands thoroughly after using the bathroom and before handling food.

Local health officials are monitoring the situation. The Iowa Department of Public Health has not yet released specific case numbers for the state.

What is the federal response?

The FDA is tracking five separate cyclospora outbreaks. The 15-state outbreak is by far the largest. No products have been linked to the other four outbreaks, including one that has sickened 115 people.

The CDC says it can take up to six weeks to confirm if a sick person is part of an outbreak. Federal and state officials continue to investigate.

This outbreak has already surpassed the worst year on record for cyclospora in the U.S. In 2019, about 4,700 illnesses were reported nationally. This year, the total stands at over 25,000.

FAQ: Cyclospora outbreak in Iowa

Is the cyclospora outbreak still active in Iowa?

Yes. The CDC added Iowa to the list of affected states on Wednesday. The outbreak is ongoing, and officials expect more cases to be identified.

What food is linked to the outbreak?

Shredded iceberg lettuce from Taylor Farms locations in central Mexico, which was served at Taco Bell. The lettuce has been recalled.

How can I protect my family?

Check for recalled lettuce, wash all produce thoroughly, and practice good hand hygiene. If you develop symptoms, see a doctor and mention possible cyclospora exposure.

Photo: CBS News