The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is investigating a surge in cyclosporiasis cases across 17 U.S. states, with 145 confirmed infections as of mid-June 2026. The parasite, Cyclospora cayetanensis, causes severe gastrointestinal symptoms, including prolonged, explosive diarrhea, abdominal cramping, and fatigue. While no deaths have been reported, 20 patients required hospitalization, and cases range from ages 5 to 86. The CDC has not identified a single outbreak source but is probing multiple clusters.
The infection, typically spread through contaminated produce, peaks during summer months. Michigan has seen a tripled case count compared to 2025, while New York, Texas, and Illinois report the highest numbers. The CDC emphasizes that current data reflects surveillance counts, not a single outbreak. Officials urge caution with fresh produce, especially during the holiday season.
Symptoms may persist for weeks or months without treatment, though antibiotics are often effective. The CDC and FDA are collaborating with state health departments to trace the parasite’s origin. No common food source has been linked to the cases thus far.