Taco Bell now under investigation over outbreak of parasite that causes 'explosive diarrhea,' report says

https://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/americas/us-politics/taco-bell-diarrhea-parasite-outbreak-b3014543.html

Taco Bell may be entangled in a widening outbreak of a parasitic gastrointestinal illness linked to contaminated produce, according to a new report. State and federal investigators are probing the chain’s possible connection to cyclosporiasis, an illness known to cause “explosive diarrhea,” two sources familiar with the matter told The Washington Post.

Signs posted at several Taco Bell locations in Michigan last week warned customers that the restaurants were “currently unable to sell Lettuce, Cilantro Onion, Pico de Gallo, and Guacamole due to a nationwide recall.” It comes as the state contends with a notable uptick in cyclosporiasis cases this year, and as state officials have warned that the outbreak may be tied to lettuce.
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While some infected individuals reported eating at Taco Bell, others had not — an indication that the outbreak is not confined to the chain.
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As of July 9, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has confirmed 843 cases of cyclosporiasis in 31 states since May, leading to 86 hospitalizations and no reported deaths. Federal officials caution, however, that the true number of infections is likely far higher. Health officials in Michigan, for instance, have reported over 1,500 cases, more than ten times that average annual amount. Spikes have also been reported in Illinois, Virginia, Ohio and New York.
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