What to know about the cyclosporiasis outbreak hitting more than half of U.S. states

July 12, 2026 - 22:00

A growing outbreak of cyclosporiasis, an intestinal infection marked by diarrhea and nausea, has now been reported in more than half of U.S. states. Federal health officials have confirmed cases in 31 states, though they have not yet identified the source of the contamination.

The illness is caused by the Cyclospora parasite, which is typically spread through contaminated food or water. Symptoms often include watery diarrhea, loss of appetite, bloating, stomach cramps, and fatigue. In some cases, vomiting and low-grade fever may also occur. Symptoms usually appear about a week after ingesting the parasite, but the incubation period can range from two to 14 days.

Health authorities are working to trace the outbreak to a common food item, but investigations remain ongoing. Past cyclosporiasis outbreaks in the U.S. have been linked to imported fresh produce, such as cilantro, raspberries, and salad mixes. Because the parasite is not commonly found in the U.S., outbreaks are often tied to imported goods from tropical or subtropical regions.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention advises anyone experiencing prolonged diarrhea to see a doctor. The infection is treatable with a specific course of antibiotics, but it can be more severe for people with weakened immune systems. To reduce risk, the CDC recommends thoroughly washing all fresh fruits and vegetables, and avoiding food that may have been washed in contaminated water.

As the investigation continues, officials urge the public to stay informed through local health departments. No deaths have been reported in connection with this outbreak so far.