Wood County is facing its largest cyclosporiasis outbreak on record, with 350 confirmed cases as of July 22, 2026, and health officials warn that the actual number of infected people is likely much higher. The intestinal illness, caused by consuming food contaminated with feces, has spread beyond the county's borders; the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has documented 4,173 laboratory-confirmed domestic cases nationwide, with more than 7,400 additional suspected cases still under investigation, many concentrated in Michigan and Ohio.

What makes this outbreak particularly challenging is the parasite's biology. Someone who ingests contaminated food today may not develop symptoms for up to two weeks, making it extraordinarily difficult for health investigators to trace the source. "It can be hard to remember what you ate 14 days ago," said Tyler Briggs, assistant director of Health Promotion and Prevention at Wood County Health Department, though he noted that trained staff are equipped to help people reconstruct their food histories.

Why Is This Outbreak So Large?

The scale of this outbreak is unprecedented for Wood County. "This is much larger than we've ever experienced in Wood County," said Rachel Aeschliman, interim health commissioner at the Wood County Health Department. The 350 confirmed cases represent only people who have sought medical care and tested positive; Aeschliman acknowledged that "there are undoubtedly many more people who have been infected, but have not sought medical care and have not been tested".

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has linked the outbreak to recalled iceberg lettuce distributed by Taylor Fresh Foods and Taylor Farms de Mexico. The widespread distribution of contaminated produce across multiple states explains why the outbreak has become a coordinated state and national response, with the CDC, FDA, and local health departments all involved in the investigation.

What Are the Symptoms of Cyclosporiasis?

Cyclosporiasis symptoms typically develop within two to 14 days after exposure to the parasite. The illness causes gastrointestinal distress that can persist for weeks if left untreated. Understanding these symptoms is critical because early medical attention can prevent complications and help health investigators identify additional cases.

• Watery diarrhea: The most common symptom, often the first sign of infection.
• Loss of appetite and weight loss: Many patients experience reduced food intake and unintended weight loss during the illness.
• Abdominal cramps and bloating: Digestive discomfort that can range from mild to severe.
• Nausea: Often accompanies the gastrointestinal symptoms.
• Prolonged fatigue: Patients report feeling exhausted even after other symptoms improve.
• Low-grade fever: A mild fever may develop in some cases.

If left untreated, symptoms could last a few days to a month or longer, with symptoms sometimes returning after initial improvement. Anyone experiencing these symptoms should contact their healthcare provider, especially if they consumed shredded iceberg lettuce in the two weeks before becoming ill.

How to Reduce Your Risk of Cyclosporiasis and Other Foodborne Illnesses

• Thoroughly rinse fresh produce: Wash all fresh fruits and vegetables under running water before eating, cutting, or cooking them, even if they are labeled "pre-washed." Contamination can occur at multiple points during preparation and packaging.
• Cook produce when possible: Heat food to 158 degrees Fahrenheit or higher to kill the Cyclospora parasite. This is the most reliable way to eliminate the risk.
• Practice proper hand hygiene: Wash your hands with soap and water before preparing food and before eating to prevent cross-contamination.
• Clean food preparation surfaces: Sanitize cutting boards, knives, countertops, and other surfaces before and after use, especially after handling raw produce or meat.
• Prevent cross-contamination: Keep ready-to-eat foods separate from raw meat, poultry, seafood, and eggs to avoid spreading harmful bacteria or parasites.
• Ask about produce sources: When shopping at farmers markets or restaurants, don't hesitate to ask where fresh fruits and vegetables come from. Knowing the source helps you make informed choices.
• Refrigerate perishable foods promptly: Store produce and other perishables at the correct temperature to slow bacterial and parasitic growth.

The Wood County Health Department is emphasizing that people should not avoid vegetables entirely. "We still want people to make good food choices," Aeschliman said, stressing that cooking produce or purchasing from known, safe sources remains the best approach.

What Should You Do If You Purchased Recalled Lettuce?

The FDA has issued specific guidance for consumers who may have purchased contaminated products. If you bought or received recalled iceberg lettuce from Taylor Fresh Foods or Taylor Farms de Mexico, discard it immediately and do not consume it. Full refunds are available at the location of purchase. Additionally, if the recalled lettuce touched any surfaces, containers, or utensils in your kitchen, carefully clean and sanitize them following FDA safe handling guidelines to reduce the risk of cross-contamination.

The FDA also recommends that consumers, restaurants, and retailers who received recalled lettuce take immediate action. If you don't know the source of iceberg lettuce at a restaurant, ask before ordering. This simple step can help you avoid potentially contaminated produce.

As investigations continue into the full scope of this outbreak, health officials are urging the public to remain vigilant about food safety practices. The delayed onset of symptoms means that new cases may continue to emerge for weeks as people who ate contaminated lettuce two weeks ago begin to show symptoms. By following basic food safety practices and staying informed about recalls, you can significantly reduce your risk of cyclosporiasis and other foodborne illnesses.