MD Cyclosporiasis Numbers Nearly Hit 150 Cases As Outbreak Grows

The cyclosporiasis outbreak in Maryland is continuing to expand as statewide numbers show nearly 150 cases were documented so far this year.

An update from the Maryland Department of Health confirmed a total of 148 cyclosporiasis cases in 2026, an increase of 38 reports since last week's notice from the agency.

The latest tally now indicates 144 cyclosporiasis cases were recorded between May 1 and Tuesday. Of those cases, 48 were acquired domestically, 54 internationally and 46 require additional examination.

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While lettuce is at the center of the latest investigations, MDH authorities say investigators have still not been able to find a common source for any of the 2026 incidents.

The parasitic illness regularly emerges in the U.S. during the spring and summer months; however, 2026 is proving a stark difference from previous years.

Taco Bell Sees Sales Decline Amid Outbreak

Nationwide, the largest number of cyclosporiasis cases has been recorded in Michigan and Ohio, areas where state officials flagged lettuce and salad greens and saw recalls from a mix of fast food providers.

Taco Bell drew widespread attention after issuing public notices announcing a nationwide recall of lettuce, cilantro, pico de gallo, and guacamole amid the outbreak.

Related: How To Order Fast Food Safely In MD As Cyclosporiasis Outbreak Grows

Yum Brands, Taco Bell's parent company, reported during a Thursday earnings call that it saw a 2% decline in sales after the chain was identified in the food safety crisis, according to CNN.

The outlet reported that the company had seen a 30% decline in foot traffic after it was identified as part of the ongoing investigation into the outbreak.

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention previously said that 1,947 cyclosporiasis cases involved an individual exposed to the company's food.

To date, the CDC said it's received reports of 6,707 laboratory-confirmed domestic cases of cyclosporiasis since May 1.

What To Do If Exposed?

Cyclosporiasis infections occur when people consume food or water contaminated with feces. The illness is not passed from person to person.

Aside from watery diarrhea, infected individuals can experience appetite loss, weight loss, cramping, bloating, flu-like symptoms, vomiting, and body aches, among other symptoms.

Each case varies, but symptoms can appear up to 14 days after contracting cyclosporiasis. As such, the CDC is encouraging individuals to log any restaurant visits they may have made prior to symptoms manifesting.

Residents are urged to seek medical care to prevent further complications or if symptoms worsen.