The West Virginia Department of Health’s Bureau for Public Health (BPH) is working with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to investigate a multi-state outbreak of a foodborne stomach parasite known as cyclosporiasis.
As of Friday, July 17, 2026, West Virginia has identified 139 cases associated with this outbreak, including 15 hospitalizations, with cases reported in 26 counties.
As a precaution while the investigation continues, consumers should:
- Avoid eating shredded iceberg lettuce served at Taco Bell locations in West Virginia.
- Contact a healthcare provider if they develop symptoms of cyclosporiasis, especially if they ate shredded iceberg lettuce from a Taco Bell restaurant during the two weeks before becoming ill.
- Thoroughly clean and sanitize any surfaces or containers that came into contact with shredded iceberg lettuce from Taco Bell.
Cyclosporiasis is an intestinal illness caused by the parasite Cyclospora cayetanensis. Common symptoms include watery diarrhea, loss of appetite, stomach cramps, nausea, fatigue, and weight loss. Symptoms typically begin about one week after exposure and can persist for several weeks if left untreated.
This investigation remains ongoing, and public health officials will continue to work to identify the source of contamination and prevent additional illnesses. Those experiencing gastrointestinal illness, such as sudden and ongoing diarrhea, are encouraged to contact their health care provider for testing and treatment.
For the latest West Virginia case counts, outbreak updates, and public health recommendations, visit: https://oeps.wv.gov/cyclosporiasis-outbreak
