health
Probe into explosive diarrheal cases points to Taco Bell and bad lettuce
Federal officials have not confirmed a source yet—and there may be multiple sources.
TL;DR
- Michigan has reported 3,309 cases of *Cyclospora* as of July 14, a significant surge from typical numbers, with 44 hospitalizations.
- Early data from Michigan suggests lettuce and salad greens are common products consumed by those affected.
- Federal and state officials are investigating Taco Bell restaurants, which have removed certain produce items, though no official nationwide recall has been announced.
- The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is aware of 1,645 confirmed cases across 34 states, with 141 hospitalizations.
- Officials suspect multiple clusters of disease are driving the widespread illness, with the Michigan outbreak possibly linked to a multi-state outbreak.
- Health officials recommend caution with leafy greens, suggesting buying whole heads, discarding outer leaves, and washing thoroughly, or opting for peel-able produce or cooking.
- Past outbreaks have been linked to bagged salad mixes, cilantro, basil, raspberries, snow peas, and green onions.