Rising Cyclosporiasis Cases Prompt Investigation Into Outbreak

WHO:

WRAL - More than 30 people diagnosed with Cyclosporiasis in Wake County.

WRAL - Dr. Carl Williams, State Public Health Veterinarian for NCDHHS.

WRAL - Dr. Christopher Chao, WakeMed Urgent Care Medical Director.

The New York Times - New York City Health Department involved in investigating a smaller outbreak.

WHAT:

WRAL - Total number of Cyclosporiasis cases in Wake County reached 270.

WRAL - Five people hospitalized in Wake County due to Cyclosporiasis.

WRAL - More than 300 cases of Cyclosporiasis reported across North Carolina.

WRAL - 14 people hospitalized throughout North Carolina due to the illness.

WRAL - CDC tracking over 1,500 cases of Cyclosporiasis across five states.

WRAL - Cases linked to shredded iceberg lettuce served at Taco Bell.

The New York Times - Previous investigation in New York traced a smaller outbreak to cilantro.

WHERE:

WRAL - Wake County, North Carolina.

WRAL - North Carolina.

The New York Times - New York City.

WHEN:

WRAL - The outbreak in Wake County reported on a Thursday.

The New York Times - Investigation in New York occurred weeks before the larger outbreak.

WHY:

WRAL - Cyclosporiasis spreads through contaminated food or drink.

WRAL - Difficulty in tracing the source of infection due to the time it takes for symptoms to appear (2-14 days).

HOW:

WRAL - NCDHHS created a working group with various health departments to improve investigation processes.

WRAL - Investigators conduct food history interviews, ingredient tracebacks, and genetic testing to identify links between cases.

WRAL - Diagnosis of Cyclosporiasis typically made through a stool sample.

(UPDATED July 19, 2026 22:13 UTC)

In Wake County, North Carolina, more than 30 people have been diagnosed with Cyclosporiasis, bringing the total number of cases in the area to 270, with five individuals hospitalized. The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services is working with various health departments to investigate the outbreak, which has also seen over 300 cases reported statewide and 14 hospitalizations across North Carolina. Meanwhile, the CDC is tracking over 1,500 cases across five states, with investigations linking some cases to shredded iceberg lettuce served at Taco Bell and a previous outbreak in New York traced to cilantro.