safety
So you think you caught cyclospora, the diarrhea-causing parasite. Here’s what to do next
By CNN Newsource at KVIA ABC-7
· July 18, 2026
· 9 min read
By Elise Haulund, CNN
Ann McNitt found herself in the emergency room in Michigan this month with an upset stomach, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. She had endured two full days of trips to the bathroom every 20 to 30 minutes and was concerned about her hydration and potassium levels.
“I went t...
Key takeaway She had endured two full days of trips to the bathroom every 20 to 30 minutes and was concerned about her hydration and potassium levels.
Why this matters in The El Paso
As El Paso residents hear about the cyclospora outbreak affecting thousands across the country, they should be aware of the potential risks in their own community. With the parasite often linked to contaminated raw produce, locals who frequent restaurants or buy prepackaged salads should be vigilant about their food sources. The fact that shredded iceberg lettuce sold at Taco Bell has been linked to the outbreak in at least five states is particularly relevant, given the presence of Taco Bell restaurants in El Paso. Residents who have recently eaten at Taco Bell or consumed prepackaged salads should be mindful of the symptoms of cyclosporiasis, including severe diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting, and seek medical attention if they experience any of these symptoms. El Paso health officials should also be prepared to respond to potential cases, given the city's proximity to the US-Mexico border and the potential for contaminated produce to be distributed locally.
About this story
Original reporting by KVIA ABC-7 . The El Paso surfaces reporting from trusted publishers and adds local editorial context so readers can quickly understand what a story means for their community. We attribute every source, link to the original report, and follow a documented editorial standards policy. To understand how stories are selected and reviewed, read our about page .
For the complete original report, visit KVIA ABC-7 . Have a tip or correction? Contact our newsroom .
Category: safety ·
Published: July 18, 2026 ·
Source: KVIA ABC-7 ·
Reading time: 9 min
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Frequently asked about this story
What is this story about? By Elise Haulund, CNN
Ann McNitt found herself in the emergency room in Michigan this month with an upset stomach, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. She had endured two full days of trips to the bathroom every 20 to 30 minutes and was concerned about her hydration and potassium levels.
“I went t...
When was this published? This article was first published on July 18, 2026 by KVIA ABC-7 and curated for The El Paso readers.
Who reported this story? This story was reported by CNN Newsource at KVIA ABC-7. To learn more about how The El Paso selects and reviews stories, see our editorial standards .
Where can I find related coverage? See more safety coverage from The El Paso, or browse our daily briefing and topic hubs .
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