CDC: Taco Bell salad triggers Cyclospora wave in the US

94 people have so far been hospitalized, the CDC further reported. According to the current state of the investigations, no deaths have been recorded. Most of those affected stated in interviews that they had eaten at Taco Bell locations — specifically in the five states mentioned.

What is cyclosporiasis?

Cyclosporiasis is caused by the parasite Cyclospora cayetanensis. Typical symptoms include watery diarrhea, which can occur explosively, nausea, vomiting, cramps, and fever. The disease is transmitted through contaminated food, frequently through fresh fruit or vegetables.

Trail leads to Mexico

According to investigators, the trail points to suppliers in Mexico. Producers there are suspected of having shipped contaminated lettuce to the US. The FDA is also involved in the investigations. The authorities are working to identify the specific supply chain and the affected batches.

For consumers in the affected states, the CDC recommends not eating the relevant lettuce for the time being. Anyone who suffers from persistent diarrhea or other symptoms after consuming Taco Bell products should seek medical help and point out the possible connection to the doctor.

Authorities' recommendations

The Taco Bell restaurant chain belongs to the Yum! corporation. The company was informed of the warning before the weekend. It was initially unclear whether products had already been pulled from sale. The CDC emphasizes that the investigation is still ongoing.

Cyclosporiasis outbreaks in the US are not uncommon. In recent years, the disease has repeatedly been linked to imported vegetables and berries. However, according to the CDC, the current wave is one of the largest in recent times.

The authorities announced that they would continue to inform the public as soon as new findings become available. Until then, the recommendation applies not to eat any iceberg lettuce from Taco Bell locations in the five named states.