Cyclospora outbreak in the US: What it is, symptoms, source and how to stay safe
The CDC is investigating a widespread Cyclospora outbreak across 34 US states, with over 1,600 confirmed cases linked to contaminated produce. Health officials are conducting traceback investigations to identify the specific source of the parasite.
Why it matters
This outbreak poses a significant public health risk, particularly for vulnerable populations, and highlights vulnerabilities in the food supply chain.
Cyclospora infections linked to contaminated produce have spread across 34 US states, according to the CDC. | Photo Credit: Dado Ruvic
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said on Tuesday it had confirmed 1,645 cases of an intestinal infection from the cyclospora parasite that causes diarrhea, nausea and other gastrointestinal symptoms and it was investigating 5,100 possible cases in 34 states.
Michigan, the hardest-hit state, reported 3,309 cases.
Cyclosporiasis is an intestinal infection that can be contracted by consuming food — typically raw fruits and vegetables — or water contaminated with feces that transmit the cyclospora parasite, according to the CDC.
Symptoms can range from mild to severe, with children, older adults and people with weakened immune systems facing a higher risk of serious illness.
While cyclosporiasis is rarely life-threatening, untreated infections can persist for weeks and may lead to hospitalization, particularly because of dehydration.
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