Ohio Man Sues Taco Bell Franchisee Over Parasite Outbreak
An Ohio man has filed a lawsuit against a Taco Bell franchisee after contracting a parasitic infection that left him severely ill for two weeks.
A Taco Bell restaurant sign seen outside an outlet.
Customer Suffers Severe Symptoms
Mohammed Ayyad filed the Lawsuit against franchisee Pacific Bells LLC after eating meals from a branch in North Olmsted, Ohio. He consumed food from the restaurant twice in June before developing severe symptoms.
Medical professionals later confirmed that Ayyad contracted cyclosporiasis through a contaminated food supply. The illness caused extreme fever, vomiting, and diarrhea, forcing him to miss two weeks of employment.
Outbreak Spreads Across Five States
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention confirmed that 1,644 infections are currently tied to the regional Outbreak. The cases span five states including Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Ohio, and West Virginia.
Health officials reported that 94 individuals required hospitalization due to the severity of the parasite. No deaths have been recorded, but experts warn the actual number of infected people is likely much higher.
Contaminated Lettuce Source Identified
The Food and Drug Administration identified a single shredded iceberg lettuce supplier from Mexico as the source. Taco Bell announced it has stopped using lettuce from this specific provider across all affected locations.
Investigators are now checking if the contaminated product reached other major restaurant chains or grocery stores. The company stated it is cooperating fully with federal authorities to ensure Food Safety compliance.
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