The U.S. Centers for Disease Prevention is currently investigating a seasonal rise in cyclosporiasis, a parasitic intestinal infection, with more than 400 cases reported across 18 states. The illness, caused by the parasite cyclospora, typically spreads through the consumption of raw produce or water contaminated with human feces. While the CDC has not yet identified a single, multi-state outbreak linking all cases, health officials are actively working with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to trace clusters of infections.
What is Cyclosporiasis and How Does it Spread?
Cyclosporiasis is a gastrointestinal illness. According to the CDC, the parasite is not typically transmitted from person to person; it can usually take anywhere from two days to two weeks to develop symptoms after ingesting the parasite.
In the United States, the illness is seasonal, with cases usually peaking between May and August. During the spring and summer months, people typically eat a lot of fresh produce such as basil, cilantro, spinach and berries, which have been linked to past outbreaks. The CDC advises people to wash all fresh produce thoroughly before eating it – and to thoroughly wash hands and kitchen surfaces too.
Current Case Trends and Regional Impact
The scale of the current outbreak varies significantly by region. Data from the CDC indicates that between 1 May and 16 June, 145 cases were reported across 17 states, with 20 individuals requiring hospitalization. However, localized health departments have reported higher volumes in specific areas.
For instance, the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services reported more than 300 cases since 22 June. This represents a significant deviation from the state’s typical annual average of approximately 50 cases. Conversely, New York State has recorded 107 cases since 1 May, a figure that remains within or below its historical annual range of 500 to 700 cases. The discrepancy between state-level reporting and national surveillance highlights the ongoing nature of the investigation as officials attempt to determine if these clusters share a common supply chain origin.
Symptoms and Clinical Treatment
The hallmark symptom of cyclosporiasis is "explosive" watery diarrhea. According to clinical guidance provided by the CDC, other common symptoms include:
- Loss of appetite
- Stomach cramps
- Nausea and vomiting
- Fatigue and low-grade fever
Symptoms typically manifest within two days to two weeks after exposure. Most people with healthy immune systems recover from cyclosporiasis on their own in days or weeks. In more severe cases, the infection is typically treated with antibiotics.
Steps for Prevention and Reporting
Health authorities emphasize that the risk of infection can be reduced through diligent food handling. The CDC advises people to wash all fresh produce thoroughly before eating it – and to thoroughly wash hands and kitchen surfaces too.
If you suspect you have contracted cyclosporiasis, the CDC advises the following:
- Consult a Healthcare Provider: If people have symptoms of cyclosporiasis, they should see their healthcare provider.
- Report to Local Authorities: If they test positive, they should report it to their local health department. This data is critical for epidemiologists tracking the source of the outbreak.
- Prioritize Hydration: Those who are ill should drink plenty of water and other fluids to avoid dehydration.
As of the latest updates, there have been no deaths amid the recent outbreak reported. Investigators continue to monitor reports from states including Texas, Illinois, New Jersey, and Florida, among others, to identify specific points of contamination in the food supply.