In the United States, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has reported a significant rise in cyclospora infections, with the number of laboratory-confirmed cases reaching 6,707 across 45 states as of July 28, 2026. This marks a sharp increase from the previous week's count of 4,173 cases across 41 states. The CDC has expanded its list of states affected by domestically acquired cyclospora infections, now including Oregon, South Dakota, Vermont, and Delaware. The rise in cases has prompted federal and state health officials to enhance surveillance efforts to investigate clusters of illness nationwide. Cyclospora is a microscopic parasite that causes cyclosporiasis, a gastrointestinal illness. Unlike many foodborne bacteria, cyclospora does not typically spread directly from person to person, as the parasite requires time in the environment to become infectious. This year's increase in cases has raised concerns among health officials, who are actively tracing illnesses and determining whether additional food products may be involved. The CDC has noted that many of the additional reports of illness have come from Michigan and Ohio, where the highest case counts are recorded. Outbreaks of cyclospora are often linked to fresh produce consumed raw, as cooking can eliminate the parasite. Food safety experts emphasize that no fresh produce is entirely risk-free during a cyclospora outbreak, as contamination can occur before the food reaches consumers. Specific items such as bagged greens, chopped lettuce, fresh herbs, and berries have been associated with previous outbreaks due to the parasite's ability to cling to rough surfaces and crevices that are difficult to clean thoroughly. In addition to the confirmed cases, the CDC is aware of over 11,500 additional cases that have not yet been laboratory confirmed or require further investigation. This includes determining whether patients traveled internationally before becoming ill. The ongoing investigation and heightened surveillance underscore the importance of public health advisories and recall notices, as health officials work to mitigate the spread of this gastrointestinal illness.
Cyclospora is a microscopic parasite that causes an intestinal infection known as cyclosporiasis. This infection is primarily characterized by symptoms such as diarrhea, loss of appetite, weight loss, stomach cramps, and fatigue. The parasite is part of the Cyclospora genus and is transmitted through the ingestion of food or water contaminated with its oocysts, which are the infectious form of the parasite. Cyclospora is not spread directly from person to person, making its transmission unique compared to many other gastrointestinal pathogens. The oocysts are resistant to many common disinfectants and can survive in the environment for extended periods, which contributes to the challenges in controlling outbreaks. The primary mode of transmission of Cyclospora is through the consumption of contaminated fresh produce, particularly fruits and vegetables that are eaten raw. Foods such as berries, lettuce, and herbs have been implicated in various outbreaks. Contamination often occurs when these foods are irrigated with water that has been contaminated with feces from infected individuals or animals. Additionally, poor hygiene practices during food preparation can also lead to the spread of the parasite. It is crucial for consumers to wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly and for food handlers to practice good hygiene to minimize the risk of infection. Cyclospora infections are more common in tropical and subtropical regions, but they can occur in temperate climates as well, particularly during the warmer months when fresh produce is more widely consumed. Outbreaks have been reported in various countries, often linked to imported produce. Public health authorities monitor these outbreaks closely, and when cases are identified, investigations are conducted to determine the source of the contamination. This is essential for implementing control measures and preventing further spread of the infection. Preventive measures are vital in reducing the incidence of cyclosporiasis. Individuals are advised to wash their hands thoroughly with soap and water before handling food and after using the restroom. It is also recommended to wash all fruits and vegetables under running water, and to peel or cook them when possible. In addition, public health campaigns aimed at educating consumers about the risks associated with contaminated food and the importance of food safety practices can help reduce the incidence of Cyclospora infections. By understanding how Cyclospora spreads and taking appropriate precautions, individuals can protect themselves and their communities from this potentially serious infection.