Florida Cyclospora Outbreak Linked to Lettuce Recall: 264 cases across nearly 40 counties

Florida’s state health officials and federal agencies are tracking a significant uptick in cyclosporiasis cases—an intestinal infection caused by the Cyclospora parasite. As of late July, total reported cases in Florida since the beginning of the year reached 264 across nearly 40 counties.

The vast majority of Florida’s cases—over 200—were reported during June and July, coinciding with what public health officials consider peak “cyclosporiasis season” (May through August).

Outbreak & Recall Details

• The Suspected Vector: The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the CDC identified commercial iceberg lettuce distributed by Taylor Farms (including supplies sourced from central Mexico) as a potential source for a major multistate outbreak.
• Recalls: Voluntarily recalled produce includes various iceberg lettuce products distributed to restaurant chains (such as select Taco Bell locations) and retail outlets (including Walmart stores) across several states.
• National Context: Nationwide, public health authorities are monitoring thousands of confirmed and suspected cases across dozens of states, with several hundred hospitalizations reported but no deaths.

What is Cyclosporiasis?

Cyclosporiasis is a gastrointestinal illness caused by ingesting food or water contaminated with Cyclospora cayetanensis.

Key Aspect	Details
Common Symptoms	Watery diarrhea (often explosive), loss of appetite, abdominal cramping, bloating, nausea, fatigue, and low-grade fever.
Incubation Period	Typically 7 to 14 days after ingesting contaminated fresh produce.
Transmission	Spread by consuming fresh fruits or leafy greens contaminated with human fecal material carrying the parasite. It is rarely spread person-to-person because the parasite needs days to weeks outside the host to become infectious.
Treatment	Unlike many viral stomach bugs, cyclosporiasis is treated effectively with a specific course of antibiotics (typically trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole / Bactrim) prescribed by a healthcare provider.

Prevention & Safety Tips

1. Check Recall Notices: Review recent FDA produce recall lists if you have recently purchased pre-packaged salad or iceberg lettuce.
2. Wash Produce Thoroughly: Wash all fresh fruits and vegetables under running water before eating, peeling, or cutting. (Note: While washing reduces risk, it may not completely remove all microscopic parasite oocysts from leaf folds).
3. Seek Medical Care: If you experience severe or lingering gastrointestinal symptoms lasting several days, contact a healthcare provider for testing and targeted treatment.