The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) confirmed at least 1,645 cases of cyclosporiasis as of July 13, 2026. Health officials report that several thousand more cases remain unverified, marking this as the largest recorded outbreak of the illness in the United States.
Cyclosporiasis is an intestinal infection caused by the Cyclospora cayetanensis parasite. The illness is typically linked to the consumption of fresh produce contaminated with the microbe. Symptoms include watery diarrhea, loss of appetite, and fatigue.
The CDC and other health agencies are currently investigating the specific sources of the contamination to mitigate further spread. Health experts advise consumers to thoroughly wash fresh produce and follow food safety protocols, though they note the parasite can be difficult to remove through washing alone.