Cyclospora outbreak map: Affected states and case hotspots in the US
Midwest emerges as the epicenter of the diarrhea-causing parasitic infection.
1Outbreak scale
Over 11,276 Cyclospora cases reported across 46 US states, with Michigan and Ohio leading in infections. The parasite spreads through contaminated food/water, causing weeks of severe diarrhea. Georgetown University data highlights the Midwest as the most affected region.
2Data discrepancies
CDC confirms 1,645 cases while state reports vary significantly. Some states count only outbreak-linked cases, others include all 2026 reports. Conflicting information between FDA and Taylor Farms complicates source identification efforts.
3Geographic spread
Majority of cases cluster in Midwest and Mid-Atlantic states. Yale epidemiologist Katelyn Jetelina calls the Midwest outbreak 'an uncontrollable beast.' A separate cilantro-linked outbreak is suspected in New York, adding complexity.
4Product recall
Taylor Farms voluntarily recalled Mexican-sourced iceberg lettuce distributed in 27 states (June 29-July 16). FDA warns against consuming recalled products while continuing investigations. Other food sources remain potential contamination risks.
5Transmission risks
Cyclospora resists disinfectants and may survive washing. Symptoms can take 2 weeks to appear, complicating tracebacks. Cooking above 158°F (70°C) kills the parasite. Choosing whole heads over pre-washed salads reduces exposure.
6Outlook uncertainty
Experts cannot predict when the outbreak will end—either when contaminated food is exhausted or cooler temperatures halt parasite maturation. Data reporting lags make real-time assessment challenging, with cases potentially rising until late August.