Cyclospora Outbreak Expands, Now Reaching Mississippi and California

WHO:

WAPT - Dr. Renia Dotson, State Epidemiologist of Mississippi

WAPT - Theresa Kittle, Deputy State Epidemiologist of Mississippi

KRCR - Tehama County Health Services Agency

WHAT:

WAPT - Five cases of Cyclosporiasis reported in Mississippi.

WAPT - The outbreak has affected more than 1,600 people across Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Ohio, and West Virginia.

KRCR - More than 3,000 reported cases of cyclosporiasis nationwide, marking the largest outbreak in U.S. history.

WAPT - Taylor Farms is voluntarily removing all iceberg lettuce sourced from a central Mexico farm from the U.S. market.

WAPT - Symptoms of Cyclosporiasis include watery diarrhea, abdominal cramping, and loss of appetite.

WHERE:

WAPT - Cases reported across the coast, Delta, and Pine Belt regions of Mississippi.

KRCR - Outbreak affecting more than 30 states, including California.

WHEN:

KRCR - Public service announcement issued on July 15.

WHY:

WAPT - Recent cases linked to shredded iceberg lettuce served at Taco Bell locations in Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Ohio, and West Virginia.

KRCR - Illness caused by the microscopic parasite Cyclospora, which spreads through contaminated food or water.

HOW:

WAPT - Recommended precautions include washing hands with soap and water after using the restroom and thoroughly washing fresh produce before consumption.

WAPT - Symptoms usually take at least one week to appear; individuals experiencing symptoms should seek medical attention.

(UPDATED July 18, 2026 01:25 UTC)

A significant outbreak of Cyclosporiasis has been reported, with five cases identified in Mississippi, contributing to over 3,000 cases nationwide, marking the largest outbreak in U.S. history. Health officials, including Dr. Renia Dotson and Theresa Kittle from Mississippi's health department, have linked recent cases to shredded iceberg lettuce served at Taco Bell locations across several states, prompting Taylor Farms to voluntarily remove affected lettuce from the market. Symptoms of this illness, caused by the microscopic parasite Cyclospora, include watery diarrhea, abdominal cramping, and loss of appetite, and individuals experiencing these symptoms are advised to seek medical attention.