The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has reported 145 cases of cyclosporiasis as of June 16, 2026, with 20 hospitalizations across 17 states. The intestinal illness, caused by the Cyclospora parasite, leads to watery diarrhea that can be explosive and frequent.
Outbreak Details and Symptoms
Cyclospora infects the small intestine and typically causes watery diarrhea, with some patients experiencing explosive bowel movements. The CDC notes that infected individuals may or may not show symptoms. All reported cases involved people who became sick after eating food in the United States, with no travel history 14 days before onset.
No deaths have been reported. The CDC has launched investigations in Illinois, New York City, New York state, Pennsylvania, and Texas, where clusters have been identified.
Sources and Transmission
Some cases are linked to Mexican-style restaurants, a grocery chain, and a catered event. Additional clusters have been reported in Alabama, Kentucky, Michigan, Ohio, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia. An extra 45 cases involved people who ate contaminated food or drank water while traveling abroad, resulting in three hospitalizations.
The CDC states that cases typically rise during spring and summer, mainly linked to fresh produce from tropical or subtropical areas. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is tracing white and green onions, cucumbers, and cilantro to identify potential sources. The parasite is usually found in food or water contaminated with feces.
Prevention and Canadian Context
Health Canada advises travelers to avoid food washed in local drinking water and to drink only from safe sources. Food should be fully cooked, and fruit should be peeled personally. Washing produce may not eliminate the Cyclospora parasite. In Canada, cases are mainly from imported food, but homegrown produce can also be a source during spring and summer.
