Health District reports second case of cyclosporiasis linked to domestic travel

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:July 22, 2026

LAS VEGAS – The Southern Nevada Health District is reporting an additional case of cyclosporiasis in a Clark County resident who likely acquired the disease while traveling to a state associated with the ongoing multistate outbreak. The individual traveled during the exposure period before returning to Clark County. At this time, there is no evidence that the exposure occurred in Clark County or elsewhere in Nevada.

Cyclosporiasis is an intestinal illness caused by the microscopic parasite Cyclospora cayetanensis. Six cases of cyclosporiasis have been reported in Clark County this year. Sporadic cases are reported locally each year, and there is no indication of increased local transmission.

“This additional case underscores the importance of remaining aware of foodborne illness risks, particularly when an outbreak is affecting multiple states,” said Dr. Cassius Lockett, District Health Officer for the Health District. “Residents should monitor current recall information and contact a health care provider if they develop persistent watery diarrhea, especially after traveling or eating food associated with the outbreak.”

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration are investigating a multistate outbreak linked to shredded iceberg lettuce served at certain Taco Bell locations in Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Ohio and West Virginia. As of July 20, the CDC reported 4,173 laboratory-confirmed cases and 308 hospitalizations associated with the outbreak across 41 states. States may report different totals because some include probable cases that are not reflected in the CDC count.

“Cyclospora spreads through contaminated food or water after spending over a week in warm moist environmental conditions to become infectious. Because person-to-person spread is unlikely, prevention focuses on avoiding contaminated fresh produce, making national outbreaks a sign of food supply contamination,” said Dr. Lockett.

The FDA’s traceback investigation identified Taylor Farms as the supplier of shredded iceberg lettuce served at locations where people who became ill reported eating. Taylor Farms has recalled iceberg lettuce sourced from Mexico, including certain products sold in retail stores and distributed to restaurants and other food service customers.

Do not eat lettuce included in the recall. When purchasing iceberg lettuce that is not recalled, choose whole heads rather than prewashed, bagged lettuce. For whole heads of lettuce, discard the outer two or three layers, separate the remaining leaves and rinse them thoroughly under running water. Washing produce can reduce, but does not eliminate, the risk of Cyclospora contamination.

Cooking produce thoroughly is the most effective way to reduce the risk of infection. Consumers should also:

• Wash their hands with soap and water before and after handling produce.
• Rinse fruits and vegetables thoroughly under running water before eating, cutting or cooking them.
• Scrub firm produce with a clean produce brush.
• Peel produce when appropriate after washing it.
• Refrigerate cut, peeled or cooked produce as soon as possible.
• Clean and sanitize surfaces or containers that have come into contact with recalled lettuce.

The most common symptom of cyclosporiasis is watery diarrhea. Other symptoms may include loss of appetite, weight loss, stomach cramps, bloating, increased gas, nausea, fatigue and, less commonly, vomiting or a low-grade fever.

Some people recover without treatment, but symptoms can last several weeks or longer and may go away and then return. Cyclosporiasis can be treated with antibiotics, which can reduce the severity and duration of the illness.

Dehydration is a primary concern, particularly for young children, older adults and people with weakened immune systems. People who have experienced watery diarrhea for more than a few days should contact a health care provider and ask whether testing for Cyclospora is appropriate. Anyone experiencing signs of severe dehydration, including dizziness, weakness or decreased urination, should seek medical care promptly.

People who are immunocompromised or especially concerned about infection may consider choosing thoroughly cooked produce while the outbreak remains under investigation. Consumers should also monitor public health advisories and avoid any foods specifically identified as part of the outbreak.

For more information about cyclosporiasis, visit CDC’s cyclosporiasis website

The Southern Nevada Health District serves as the local public health authority for Clark County, Boulder City, Henderson, Las Vegas, Mesquite and North Las Vegas. The agency safeguards the public health of the community’s residents and visitors through innovative programs, regulations, and initiatives focused on protecting and promoting their health and well-being. More information about the Health District, its programs, services, and the regulatory oversight it provides is available at www.SNHD.info. Follow the Health District on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.