What to Know: Cyclosporiasis Spreads around the U.S.

July 15, 2026

The CDC has confirmed more than 1,600 cases nationwide of a gastrointestinal illness that can cause severe illness, and another 5,100 cases are under investigation.

This week, the public health agency released an advisory for clinicians, health care providers, and the public about what they need to know about cyclosporiasis.

Here’s what you need to know:

• Where things stand:  The outbreak is heightened in Michigan, where 2,640 cases have been reported through Monday. Pennsylvania has confirmed between 11 and 30 cases. Investigation of possible cases is ongoing across the U.S. There have been 141 hospitalizations this year across the 34 states reporting cases.
• The basics:  Cyclosporiasis is caused by a microscopic parasite and spread through the consumption of contaminated food or water. It is not usually spread from person to person
  • Symptoms typically arrive a week after exposure and can continue two to 14 data after exposure.
  • The most common symptoms include watery diarrhea, loss of appetite, weight loss, bloating, nausea, and fatigue.
• Recommendations for providers:  Clinicians should request diagnostic testing for suspected cyclospora cases; ask patients about recent food and travel history; and follow the treatment guidance for confirmed cases.
  • Patients should be advised to stay hydrated.
• What the public should do:  Contact your clinician if you have prolonged or watery diarrhea lasting more than a few days.
  • Thoroughly washing fresh produce under clean running water and safe food handling practices can help, as well.
• Quotable:  “Early information has shown lettuce as a common product that regularly comes up during the investigation. We will continue to provide updates as we learn more,” said Dr. Natasha Bagdasarian, Michigan’s chief medical executive, in a statement earlier this week. 

HAP is monitoring the latest public health developments and providing updates to members. The CDC advisory is available online.