As cyclospora illnesses surge to a record, Michigan officials eye lettuce as a possible cause

Infections from the diarrhea-causing parasite cyclospora are surging, with 2026 already becoming the worst year for reported cases in the nation. State-level data indicates that more than 30 states have reported infections this year, with current figures surpassing previous records. Consequently, officials in Michigan are investigating lettuce as a possible cause for this increase in illnesses. The surge represents a significant public health concern as the number of reported cases continues to rise across the United States.