A cyclospora parasite outbreak has sickened 145 people across 17 U.S. states, prompting an investigation by federal health authorities. As of June 16, 20 individuals have been hospitalized due to the infection, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The illnesses occurred between May 1 and June 6, affecting individuals aged five to 86. No deaths have been reported.
Officials are investigating several clusters of cases, with no common travel history reported among the affected individuals. This has led investigators to suspect a foodborne source. The CDC, in conjunction with the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), is working to identify potential sources of contamination.
Cyclosporiasis, the infection caused by the cyclospora parasite, typically leads to symptoms such as diarrhea, severe cramping, nausea, vomiting, and fatigue. Symptoms usually appear about a week after exposure. If left untreated, the illness can persist for over a month, with symptoms potentially subsiding and recurring. Human-to-human transmission is considered rare.
New York has reported the highest number of cases, ranging from 31 to 80. Texas and Illinois follow, with 11 to 30 cases each. The remaining 14 states have between one and ten cases.
Previous outbreaks of cyclosporiasis have been linked to produce such as bagged salad kits, cilantro, basil, and other leafy greens. However, no specific source or suspected item has been identified in the current outbreak.
Preventive measures recommended by the CDC include avoiding food and water at risk of fecal contamination and adhering to general food safety guidelines during preparation. The standard treatment for cyclosporiasis is a course of the antibiotic trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole. Most individuals with healthy immune systems recover without medical intervention.
Cyclosporiasis cases typically see an increase between May and August. While often associated with international travel, this outbreak's cases have not reported recent travel, reinforcing the focus on domestic food sources. Separately, 45 additional cases of cyclosporiasis were reported in individuals who became ill after consuming food or beverages outside the U.S., with three hospitalizations among this group.