CDC Links Nationwide Diarrhea Outbreak to Contaminated Iceberg Lettuce from Mexico
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has identified a significant outbreak of cyclosporiasis, a parasitic illness causing severe diarrhea, linked to contaminated iceberg lettuce. This outbreak, the largest in recent years, has affected several states, including Michigan, Indiana, Ohio, West Virginia, and Kentucky. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) traced the contamination to a single supplier in Mexico, with the lettuce being used by Taco Bell in these states. In response, Taco Bell has voluntarily removed certain ingredients from select restaurants as a precaution. Cyclosporiasis is caused by the cyclospora parasite, which spreads through contact with human feces and contaminates produce and water. Symptoms can persist for weeks if untreated, and the illness is treated with antibiotics. Public health officials recommend avoiding potentially contaminated foods and thoroughly washing produce.