The Rhode Island Department of Health is reminding residents to follow food safety practices as federal health officials investigate a multistate outbreak of cyclosporiasis linked to shredded iceberg lettuce served at Taco Bell locations in five states.
The CDC and FDA have advised consumers not to eat shredded iceberg lettuce from Taco Bell locations in Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Ohio, and West Virginia. The investigation is ongoing and additional brands, restaurants, or distribution channels may be identified. Rhode Island is not among the affected states, and none of the six cyclosporiasis cases reported in Rhode Island so far in 2026 are linked to the multistate outbreak or a common food source.
Cyclosporiasis is caused by the microscopic parasite Cyclospora cayetanensis and spreads through contaminated food — most often fresh produce — or contaminated water. It does not spread person to person. Foods commonly linked to past outbreaks include bagged lettuce, fresh cilantro, fresh basil, raspberries, snow peas, and green onions.
Symptoms typically appear about a week after exposure and include frequent watery diarrhea, stomach cramps, bloating, loss of appetite, fatigue, and low-grade fever. Illness can last weeks and may relapse if untreated; cyclosporiasis is treated with antibiotics.
RIDOH recommends washing all fruits and vegetables thoroughly under running water, cutting away damaged areas before eating, and cooking produce to 158°F when possible — especially for pregnant women, older individuals, and those with underlying health conditions.
Anyone experiencing sudden, persistent, or watery diarrhea is encouraged to contact their health care provider. More information is at cdc.gov.
