Cyclospora outbreak grows to 15 states as lettuce-linked illnesses continue

Federal health officials say a growing Cyclospora outbreak linked to contaminated lettuce has now spread to 15 states.

(CNN)- Federal health officials say a growing Cyclospora outbreak linked to contaminated lettuce has now spread to 15 states.

According to health officials, the intestinal illness has been tied to lettuce sold at restaurants, including Taco Bell, as well as some grocery stores.

Six states were recently added to the outbreak after laboratory testing showed illnesses there were caused by the same strain of the Cyclospora parasite.

The parasite infects the lining of the small intestine and can cause weeks of severe gastrointestinal illness if left untreated.

As concerns grow, some consumers say they are changing where they buy fresh produce, with some opting to purchase fruits and vegetables from local farmers instead of large retailers.

Local growers say produce that is harvested and sold locally has fewer opportunities for contamination during shipping.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says the outbreak has now sickened more than 6,000 people nationwide.

Nearly 300 people have been hospitalized, and two deaths have been reported as the investigation continues.