US health authorities are investigating a growing outbreak of cyclosporiasis after more than 800 confirmed cases of the intestinal illness were reported across the country, with officials also examining over 1,500 suspected infections.
The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) said 843 confirmed domestic cases had been recorded in 31 states between May 1 and July 9, while more than 80 people have required hospital treatment. Public health officials are working with state agencies to determine the source of the outbreak, which is believed to be linked to contaminated fresh produce.
Cyclosporiasis is caused by the parasite Cyclospora cayetanensis, which spreads primarily through food or water contaminated with human waste. Fresh fruits, leafy vegetables and herbs are among the foods most commonly associated with infections. Although the illness is rarely fatal, it can cause prolonged gastrointestinal symptoms that last for several weeks.
Michigan has emerged as one of the hardest-hit states, reporting more than 1,500 cases as of July 10. State health officials said the number is far above the typical annual total of 40 to 50 infections.
Dr. Natasha Bagdasarian, Michigan’s chief medical executive, said investigators are interviewing patients to identify possible links between infections, including restaurants visited, grocery purchases and foods consumed. So far, no single producer or supplier has been identified as the source of the outbreak.
Health experts said many infections may have gone undetected initially because symptoms often appear up to two weeks after exposure, while routine laboratory testing does not always include screening for Cyclospora. Doctors must specifically request testing for the parasite when patients experience persistent diarrhea.
Unlike many common foodborne illnesses caused by bacteria such as E. coli or Salmonella, cyclosporiasis usually produces prolonged watery diarrhea, abdominal cramps and fatigue rather than severe vomiting. Symptoms may improve temporarily before returning, making the illness difficult to recognize without laboratory confirmation.
Dr. Linda Yancey, an infectious disease specialist at Memorial Hermann Health System in Texas, said most healthy people recover without complications, although antibiotics may be prescribed for young children, people with weakened immune systems and others at higher risk of severe illness.
Health officials are advising consumers to take extra precautions when preparing fresh produce. Washing fruits and vegetables may reduce contamination, although it cannot completely eliminate the parasite once food has been exposed. Produce with uneven surfaces, including lettuce, basil, cilantro, green onions, raspberries and blackberries, can be more difficult to clean thoroughly.
Experts recommend cooking vegetables whenever possible, selecting whole heads of lettuce instead of pre-packaged leaves, and washing produce carefully before consumption.
The investigation remains ongoing as the CDC and state health departments work to identify the source of contamination and prevent additional infections. Officials also said improved sanitation practices at farms and better-quality water used during harvesting and processing could help reduce the risk of future outbreaks.
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