Cyclosporiasis Outbreak Potentially Linked to Shredded Lettuce Affects Multiple States
A cyclosporiasis outbreak, potentially linked to shredded lettuce, has been announced by officials and is affecting multiple states, including Massachusetts.
Boston, MA, July 27, 2026 —
Officials have announced a cyclosporiasis outbreak that is impacting several states, with shredded lettuce identified as a potential source of the illness. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) are investigating the outbreak.
Massachusetts is among the states reporting cases of cyclosporiasis. The specific number of cases and the timeline of the outbreak in Massachusetts were not immediately available.
Cyclosporiasis is an intestinal illness caused by the microscopic parasite Cyclospora cayetanensis. People typically become infected by consuming food or water contaminated with the parasite. Symptoms can include watery diarrhea, loss of appetite, weight loss, stomach cramps, bloating, gas, nausea, and fatigue. Some individuals may experience vomiting, fever, and body aches. The symptoms may be mild or severe, and can recur.
The investigation is ongoing to pinpoint the exact source of contamination and to determine if other products may be affected. Health officials are advising consumers to exercise caution, although specific product recalls or advisories have not yet been issued in relation to this potential link to shredded lettuce.
Further details regarding the scope of the outbreak, including the total number of affected individuals across all states and the specific product or brand implicated, are expected to be released as the investigation progresses. The contractor or supplier responsible for the shredded lettuce has not been identified at this time.
Story summarized from the original created by Joseph Hosey on patch.com, see more information here.
Media gallery
