Cyclosporiasis Outbreak Over: Officials Confirm Lettuce Contamination
U.S. health officials have declared an end to the largest recorded outbreak of cyclosporiasis, a parasitic illness linked to imported lettuce. The outbreak sickened over 12,000 people and tragically resulted in two deaths.
BREAKING: Officials Declare End to Major Cyclosporiasis Outbreak Linked to Imported Lettuce Washington D.C. – September 12, 2026 – Federal and state health officials today announced the conclusion of the largest recorded outbreak of cyclosporiasis in the United States. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), in coordination with numerous state health departments, confirmed that the widespread transmission of the parasitic illness, which sickened over 12,000 individuals and resulted in two fatalities, has now ceased. The outbreak was definitively linked to the consumption of contaminated, imported lettuce. Outbreak Details and Public Health Impact The parasitic illness, cyclosporiasis, is caused by the microscopic parasite Cyclospora cayetanensis . Symptoms typically include watery diarrhea, loss of appetite, weight loss, cramping, bloating, gas, nausea, and fatigue. Some individuals may experience vomiting, fever, and muscle aches. The CDC reported that the outbreak, which began in late spring 2026, saw a significant surge in cases throughout the summer months. Approximately 12,200 laboratory-confirmed cases were reported…