Cyclospora Outbreak In US: What to Know About The Parasite Behind The Rising Diarrhoea Cases

Published 11 July 2026 · health

Cyclospora Outbreak In US: What to Know About The Parasite Behind The Rising Diarrhoea Cases Curated By, Last Updated: July 11, 2026, 22:20 IST A

Cyclospora Outbreak In US: What to Know About The Parasite Behind The Rising Diarrhoea Cases Curated By, Last Updated: July 11, 2026, 22:20 IST A diarrhoea-causing parasite has spread across 31 US states, with health officials reporting a rise in infections. Rapid Read News18 A diarrhoea-causing parasite has infected people across 31 US states, with several regions reporting a sharp rise in cases over the past two weeks compared with the same period last year, according to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). While investigations are underway, health officials are yet to identify the source of the current outbreak. What Is Cyclospora? Cyclospora is a microscopic parasite that causes Cyclosporiasis, a gastrointestinal illness that spreads through contaminated food and water. Although the parasite has been linked to several foodborne outbreaks in the past, authorities have not yet determined what is driving the current surge in infections across the US. Where Has the Outbreak Spread? The outbreak has been concentrated mainly in the Midwest. Michigan has reported the highest number of infections, with 1,562 cases recorded as of July 10, according to the state’s health department. Significant increases have also been reported in New York, Illinois and Ohio.

The CDC said that, as of July 10, it had confirmed more than 800 cases reported since May 1. In addition, over 1,500 more cases are still being analysed. The agency noted that these figures are likely an underestimate because its national data is updated more slowly than reports from state health departments. Case numbers typically rise during the spring and summer months. Symptoms to Watch For • Watery diarrhoea is the most common symptom of Cyclosporiasis. • Loss of appetite may occur after infection. • Unexplained weight loss is another commonly reported symptom. • Some infected individuals may not experience any symptoms despite carrying the parasite. • Symptoms typically develop about one week after a person becomes infected. • The infection can be treated with commonly prescribed antibiotics, including Bactrim or Septra. • There is currently no vaccine available to prevent Cyclosporiasis. How Does the Parasite Spread? Cyclospora is transmitted indirectly between people. After being released into the environment, the parasite requires one to two weeks on fresh produce or in water before it becomes infectious to humans. Once a person is infected, the parasite can spread further if contaminated hands come into contact with food.