By now, you’ve probably heard of cyclosporiasis, the bug—or rather, the parasite—that’s spreading throughout the U.S. as a result of contaminated iceberg lettuce. As of July 20, more than 1,644 cases of the disease have been reported and confirmed across the country since May 1, including more than 100 confirmed cases in Florida and one reported case in Manatee County (there are no reported cases in Sarasota, Charlotte or DeSoto counties, according to the Reportable Diseases Frequency Report). 

Here’s what you need to know about the disease, the outbreak and how to protect yourself.

What Is Cyclosporiasis?

Cyclosporiasis is not a new illness. It’s a seasonal intestinal infection that affects Floridians and the rest of the country every year, particularly in the summer months, when produce is more frequently eaten raw and therefore more susceptible to contamination. Caused by the parasite Cyclospora cayetanensis, it affects bowel movements, often causing explosive watery diarrhea. Some of the other primary symptoms are loss of appetite, weight loss, cramping, bloating, increased gas, nausea and fatigue. The disease is contracted through consuming produce or water that has been contaminated by human feces, not by human-to-human contact. 

Symptoms may start to appear anywhere from one to two weeks after consuming contaminated food and can last from a few days to a few months. Although symptoms may seem to go away, without treatment, they can return, according to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC). 

What Should I Do if I Think I Have Cyclosporiasis?

Anyone showing symptoms of cyclosporiasis should contact a health care provider immediately. If you’re worried about already having contracted the disease, ask for cyclospora testing specifically rather than stool testing. 

How Do I Treat Cyclosporiasis?

The CDC recommends treating cyclosporiasis with the combination antibiotic Trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (TMP-SMX), which is sold as Bactrim, Septra or Cotrim. Adults should take 160 milligrams of TMP and 800 milligrams of SMX orally twice a day for seven to 10 days. Those with pre-existing conditions, other illnesses, affected immune systems, pediatric patients and elderly patients should consult their healthcare provider, as dosage and treatment length may change.

If Cyclosporiasis Is Seasonal, Why Is It Such a Big Deal Now?

Because of the scope of contamination. There is an ongoing multistate investigation of the outbreak being led by the CDC, FDA and public health officials that has been linked to shredded iceberg lettuce served at Taco Bell locations in Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Ohio and West Virginia.

What Produce Supplier Is Linked to the Outbreak?

On July 19, California-based produce supplier Taylor Farms released a statement that said previous FDA testing on iceberg lettuce from Taylor Farms de Mexico, a subsidiary of Taylor Farms, produced a false positive. Two days before, on July 17 in an X post, the company announced that Taylor Farms would be voluntarily removing all iceberg lettuce sourced from central Mexico in a recall that also included products distributed to food service customers.

As of July 20, the CDC has not walked back claims that the outbreak is linked to a shipment of contaminated iceberg lettuce from Taylor Farms de Mexico and the agency is still advising the public not to eat recalled lettuce from Taylor Farms. Taylor Farms also has not rolled back its voluntary recall.

Is Cyclosporiasis Found on Any Other Produce?

In addition to lettuce, the FDA lists raspberries, cabbage, basil, cilantro, parsley, broccoli, snow peas, sugar snap peas, and leafy greens as produce to be cautious with due to concerns about cyclosporiasis. The Florida Department of Health in Sarasota County advises Sarasotans to thoroughly wash their hands before and after handling raw fruits and vegetables and to wash all produce thoroughly before preparation. Because cyclospora can stick to the leaves or crevices of produce, the CDC also recommends cooking produce to a temperature of at least 158 degrees Fahrenheit to kill the parasite. 

Is Cyclosporiasis Fatal?

Although it's highly unpleasant, the CDC says cyclosporiasis is generally not fatal or life-threatening for healthy individuals. But keep in mind that severe dehydration resulting from the diarrhea can be dangerous, especially for young children, older adults, and those with weakened immune systems. 

For more information about cyclosporiasis, click here.