Protect yourself and your family during the ongoing cyclospora outbreak

As public health officials investigate a large multistate Cyclospora outbreak, a foodborne illness caused by the parasite Cyclospora cayetanensis, Anirudh Naig, a food safety extension state specialist at Iowa State University, encourages consumers to take extra precautions when purchasing, preparing and consuming fresh produce.

Since May 1, 2026, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has received reports of 843 confirmed domestic cases of Cyclosporiasis and is aware of more than 1,500 cases that require further analysis to confirm the illness as domestically acquired Cyclosporiasis. So far this year, multiple states have reported an increase in cases in the last two weeks compared to the same period in 2025. The specific food source has not yet been identified. 

What Is Cyclospora?

Cyclospora is a microscopic parasite that infects the intestinal tract and can cause prolonged gastrointestinal illness. Common symptoms include:

• Watery diarrhea
• Frequent or explosive bowel movements
• Abdominal cramps
• Loss of appetite
• Fatigue
• Weight loss
• Nausea

Symptoms may take up to two weeks to appear after exposure and can last for several weeks if left untreated. While the illness is rarely life-threatening, it can significantly affect a person’s health and daily activities. 

How Does Cyclospora Spread?

Cyclospora is commonly linked to fresh fruits and vegetables contaminated with human waste during growing, harvesting or processing. In previous outbreaks, foods such as lettuce, cilantro, basil, green onions, raspberries and other fresh produce have been implicated. Warm, humid conditions can help the parasite survive in the environment. 

Food Safety Recommendations

Consumers can reduce their risk of infection by following these food safety practices:

Wash Produce Thoroughly

• Rinse all fruits and vegetables under running water before eating, cutting or cooking.
• Scrub firm produce when appropriate.
• Remove and discard outer leaves from lettuce and leafy greens.

Choose Whole Produce When Possible

• During the investigation, consider purchasing whole heads of lettuce rather than pre-cut or bagged salad mixes.
• Remove the outer leaves before washing and consuming.  

Cook Foods When Possible

• Heat effectively destroys the parasite.
• Cook vegetables and herbs whenever practical, especially for vulnerable populations such as older adults, young children, pregnant women and people with weakened immune systems. 

Prevent Cross-Contamination

• Wash hands with soap and water before food preparation.
• Use clean cutting boards, utensils and food-contact surfaces.
• Keep ready-to-eat foods separate from raw produce during preparation.

Drink Safe Water

• Avoid water from questionable sources and follow local public health advisories regarding drinking water safety.

When to Seek Medical Attention

Individuals experiencing diarrhea that persists for more than a few days should contact a healthcare provider. Because routine stool tests may not automatically detect Cyclospora, patients should discuss the possibility of Cyclosporiasis with their healthcare professional. Specific testing and, when appropriate, antibiotic treatment may be required. 

While investigators continue working to identify the source of the outbreak, consumers should remain vigilant and practice safe food handling habits. Washing produce, selecting whole fruits and vegetables when possible, cooking foods thoroughly and seeking medical attention for persistent symptoms can help reduce the risk of illness. 

For additional information about Cyclospora and food safety, visit your local or state health department website or the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

PHOTO: Close up woman washing vegetables above kitchen sink. (Adobe Stock-#470081576 │ khwanchai)