Parasitic outbreak sickens thousands across 30 states
The Wall Street Journal reported Thursday, citing a person familiar with the matter, that shredded iceberg lettuce supplied by Taylor Farms to Taco Bell restaurants has been linked to the Cyclospora outbreak that has sickened thousands across the country. The identification follows earlier indications that lettuce may be a source of the outbreak, which has been under investigation.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said more than 5,100 possible cases across 30 states are under investigation, with at least 140 hospitalizations. The outbreak has been concentrated in the Midwest, with Michigan officials reporting more than 4,000 cases and identifying Michigan, Ohio, Kentucky, West Virginia, and Indiana as likely connected states.
Michigan health officials earlier this week said that bagged, prewashed salad kits appeared to be a potential source, based on their review. The new link to Taylor Farms lettuce supplied to Taco Bell provides a more specific connection in the supply chain.
Taco Bell temporarily removed some fresh ingredients from its restaurants as a precautionary measure, the chain said earlier this week. Some locations posted signage that they were no longer serving lettuce, pico de gallo, guacamole, cilantro, and onion.
Neither Taylor Farms nor Taco Bell immediately responded to requests for comment from the Journal.
The Washington Post earlier reported the potential source of the outbreak.
Cyclospora is a parasite that can cause explosive diarrhea and vomiting, according to the Journal.