# U.S. Officials Declare End to Cyclospora Outbreak Tied to Mexican Lettuce
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention announced that the cyclospora outbreak sweeping the United States has ended, though nearly 13,000 people contracted the parasitic infection during the public health crisis.
The outbreak centered on fresh lettuce processed by Taylor Farms at a facility in Mexico. The CDC traced the contamination to this single source, making it one of the largest foodborne illness outbreaks tied to produce in recent years. The agency did not identify a specific mechanism for how the parasite contaminated the lettuce at the processing facility.
Cyclospora cayetanensis is a single-celled parasite that causes an intestinal infection called cyclosporiasis. The illness produces watery diarrhea, loss of appetite, weight loss, bloating, gas, and stomach cramps. Symptoms typically emerge one to two weeks after exposure. Most people recover without treatment, though antibiotics can shorten the illness duration. Severe cases lead to hospitalization, though deaths from cyclospora remain rare.
The contaminated lettuce distributed across multiple U.S. states. Public health officials urged consumers to avoid lettuce products from Taylor Farms' Mexico facility starting in late spring. The company initiated product recalls as the outbreak unfolded.
"The outbreak is over, but the investigation continues," CDC spokesperson told reporters. Federal investigators are working with Mexican health authorities to determine how the parasite entered the processing facility and contaminated the lettuce. Understanding this pathway matters for preventing future outbreaks at the same location.
Cyclospora outbreaks linked to imported produce occur periodically in the United States. The parasite spreads through contaminated water, typically in regions with poor sanitation infrastructure. Previous outbreaks affected raspberries, cilantro, and basil imported from Central and South America.
This outbreak highlights the vulnerability of fresh produce supply chains dependent on international sources. A single contamination point can affect thousands of consumers across dozens of states within days. The incident sparked renewed calls for stronger food safety protocols at produce processing facilities overseas.
Taylor Farms processes lettuce and other vegetables at multiple facilities worldwide. The company cooperated with CDC investigators throughout the outbreak response. A company statement said they "take food safety very seriously" and are implementing additional safety measures at their Mexico facility.
The CDC continues monitoring for new cases linked to this outbreak. Anyone who became ill after consuming Taylor Farms lettuce between May and July should report their illness to local health authorities. Individuals experiencing persistent diarrhea or abdominal pain lasting more than a few days should contact a healthcare provider.
Consumers purchasing fresh lettuce should rinse it thoroughly before eating. Washing produce under running water removes surface contamination, though it does not eliminate all parasites. Cooking lettuce kills cyclospora, but most people consume lettuce raw.