Cyclospora is spreading in 34 US states: Why are cases increasing and what foods are under investigation? | Today’s news
The United States is experiencing the largest known outbreak of cyclospora, a food-borne parasite that causes severe diarrhea and other gastrointestinal illnesses, with thousands of infections reported in more than 30 states.
The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has confirmed 1,645 cases of cyclosporiasis and is investigating more than 5,100 possible cases in 34 states. State-level data indicate that 2026 has already surpassed the previous national record of 2019, making it the worst year on record for reported infections.
Here’s what you need to know.
What is cyclospora?
Cyclospora is a microscopic parasite that infects the small intestine and causes a disease known as cyclosporiasis.
People usually become infected after eating raw fruit, vegetables, or water contaminated with feces containing the parasite. Unlike many other infections, cyclospora is not normally transmitted directly from person to person because the parasite needs time in the environment to become infectious.
What are the symptoms?
Symptoms can appear two days to more than two weeks after infection and can last for weeks if untreated.
-Frequent watery diarrhea, sometimes described as “explosive”
While most people recover, severe diarrhea can lead to dehydration and hospitalization, especially in vulnerable individuals.
Who is most at risk?
The disease can affect anyone, but serious complications are more likely in:
– People with a weakened immune system
-Individuals with chronic health problems
Which states are most affected?
The CDC reports that cases linked to the current outbreak have been identified in 34 states.
The worst affected areas include:
Michigan: More than 3,300 cases
Ohio: More than 1,100 cases
New York City: More than 400 cases
Illinois: More than 200 cases
Federal investigators believe cases in Michigan, Ohio, Kentucky and West Virginia may be related to the same outbreak, although other infections may have different sources.
What is causing the outbreak?
Investigators have not yet identified a single source.
But Michigan officials say interviews with more than 1,000 patients suggest that lettuce or salad may be a common factor.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) conducts multi-item traceability to determine where the contamination occurred.
Past outbreaks of cyclospora have been associated with:
How does the FDA investigate this?
The FDA is tracing food eaten by infected people back through the supply chain — from restaurants and grocery stores to distributors, processors and farms — to determine where contamination may have occurred.
Officials stress that no single grower, supplier or product has yet been confirmed as the source.
Read also | Diarrheal disease is now reported in 31 US states: What is cyclosporiasis
How can you protect yourself?
Health professionals recommend:
– Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before handling food.
– Wash fresh fruits and vegetables under running water.
– Scrub solid products with a clean brush.
-Consider buying whole heads of lettuce instead of bagged lettuce until more information is available.
– Avoid eating products that look spoiled or improperly stored.
Because cyclospora can survive on fresh produce, washing can reduce—but not completely eliminate—the risk.
Why are cases increasing?
Health experts say several factors may be contributing to the increase in infections:
-Improved laboratory testing and detection
– Wider oversight of public health authorities
– Increased consumption of fresh imported products
-Climatic conditions that can support the survival of the parasite
(With inputs from Reuters, AP)
Read also | Cyclospora outbreak: Taco Bell under probe; Michigan links cases to salad greens
