Concord, N.H. — July 23, 2026
New Hampshire health officials have confirmed a cluster of cyclosporiasis cases tied to recalled lettuce served at a hospital cafeteria in Keene, part of a larger national outbreak of the foodborne parasite *Cyclospora*.
What Happened
The New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS), Division of Public Health, confirmed nine people with cyclosporiasis who ate lettuce products served at the cafeteria of Dartmouth Health’s Cheshire Medical Center in Keene. The state is continuing to investigate additional cases potentially linked to the cluster.
Cheshire Medical Center reported a broader count: the hospital said 16 people — including 10 employees — have been exposed and are showing cyclosporiasis symptoms, of whom nine cases have so far been confirmed by the state. The hospital stated that no inpatients contracted the illness while at Cheshire.
The affected lettuce was iceberg lettuce that Taylor Farms voluntarily recalled on July 17, 2026, after it was identified as the potential source of the national *Cyclospora* outbreak. Before the recall, the product had been distributed to 27 states. DHHS confirmed the recalled product is no longer being served at the medical center.
Nine confirmed cases represent a notable local development: six earlier cases of cyclosporiasis had been identified in New Hampshire this year, but none of those were connected to the national outbreak until now.
The Hospital’s Response
In response, Cheshire Medical Center said it pulled all recalled items and, out of an abundance of caution, temporarily removed all salad bar options “until such time that we are confident in the safety of our patients and community.” The hospital said it began reporting cases to DHHS immediately and is partnering with the state during its ongoing investigation, adjusting operations as needed based on public health and FDA guidance.
The center — a nonprofit community hospital within the Dartmouth Health system — also emphasized preventive steps, encouraging frequent, thorough handwashing and careful rinsing of produce (particularly lettuces, broccoli, and berries) in clean water before eating.
Who Is at Risk and What to Watch For
DHHS is advising anyone who ate lettuce at the Cheshire Medical Center cafeteria from the beginning of June through July 20, 2026, and who develops severe or persistent watery diarrhea, to contact their health care provider for evaluation and testing for *Cyclospora* infection.
Symptoms of cyclosporiasis can include:
– Watery diarrhea (sometimes described as “explosive”)
– Loss of appetite and weight loss
– Stomach cramps and nausea
– Fatigue
– Low-grade fever
Symptoms typically begin within about a week of consuming contaminated food, though onset can take two weeks or longer. If untreated, symptoms can last for weeks and may relapse after a period of apparent improvement. Most otherwise-healthy people with normal immune function recover on their own, and health officials note that cyclosporiasis is not considered deadly, though it can cause extreme gastrointestinal distress.
The Broader Outbreak
*Cyclospora* is a parasite that infects people through food or water contaminated with feces, and it thrives in tropical climates. The recalled Taylor Farms lettuce was grown in central Mexico.
The outbreak extends well beyond New Hampshire. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has reported more than 4,000 laboratory-confirmed cases of cyclosporiasis nationwide, plus more than 7,400 additional suspected cases. The Food and Drug Administration said it is investigating a new *Cyclospora* outbreak, and as of this reporting the source had not been definitively identified. The FDA indicated earlier in the week that Taylor Farms remained the focus of its investigation, despite an earlier false-positive test result.
While DHHS says it is not aware of any recalled product sold directly to consumers in New Hampshire stores, other food service businesses in the state — such as restaurants and cafeterias — did receive recalled Taylor Farms product.
Where to Get Information or Report Illness
New Hampshire residents with questions about cyclosporiasis, or who wish to report a suspected illness, can contact the Division of Public Health at **603-271-4496**. DHHS is posting updates on confirmed cases and identified exposure locations on its cyclosporiasis webpage as its investigation continues.
Legal Representation for Victims
Ron Simon, a nationally known food poisoning lawyer, represents victims in this outbreak. Individuals sickened in the New Hampshire cluster who wish to understand their legal rights may seek out such representation.Mr. Simon and his law firm have established the Taco Bell Cyclospora Claim Center to assist victims in the outbreak. The Claim Center can be reached toll-free at 1-888-335-4901 or by visiting the firm’s website at https://www.ronsimonassociates.com/.
