Parasite Outbreak: 843 Cases Confirmed, True Count Higher

As of July 14, 2026, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has officially recorded 843 domestic cases of cyclosporiasis, with 86 individuals hospitalized and no reported fatalities. Federal health officials strongly suspect that the actual number of infections is considerably higher. This undercount is attributed to many infected individuals recovering without medical intervention or specific testing, coupled with significant data processing delays in several states.

While the CDC has confirmed 843 cases, an additional 1,500 suspected cases are undergoing laboratory analysis. Case numbers vary by state, with New York and Michigan reporting the most illnesses. Michigan, for instance, has logged over 1,500 local cases, exceeding federal figures due to reporting lags.

Cyclosporiasis is caused by the parasite Cyclospora cayetanensis, typically transmitted through contaminated food or water. Symptoms, appearing about a week after exposure, prominently feature watery diarrhea, posing a risk of dehydration. Other symptoms include fatigue, cramps, bloating, and nausea. The parasite primarily affects individuals between 5 and 88 years old, with a median age of 44, and females constitute about 59% of cases.

Health investigators have not yet pinpointed a definitive food source for this outbreak. However, past outbreaks have been linked to fresh herbs and produce like cilantro, basil, lettuce, and raspberries. Public health agencies recommend thorough washing of produce, discarding outer leaves of lettuce, and separating herbs for individual washing. Cooking is advised as the safest method to eliminate the parasite, with freezing being a less certain alternative.