U.S. Health Warning: CDC Reports Rising Cyclosporiasis Cases as Summer Illness Season Intensifies
A new CDC health alert warns that cyclosporiasis cases are climbing across the United States, with 145 confirmed illnesses reported between May 1 and June 16, 2026. While there is no evidence of a single nationwide outbreak, public‑health officials emphasize that the growing number of cases signals an active summer illness season and ongoing investigations into multiple clusters.
What the CDC Is Seeing Right Now
Cyclosporiasis, caused by the microscopic parasite Cyclospora, is a nationally notifiable disease monitored closely across the country. The CDC reports:
145 U.S.-acquired cases from May 1-June 16
20 hospitalizations
0 deaths
Cases reported in 17 states
Median patient age: 42
61 percent of cases occurred in females
These individuals did not travel internationally, meaning they became sick after eating contaminated food within the United States. Illness onset ranged from May 1 to June 6, with the median onset date of May 13.
Public‑health agencies--including CDC, FDA, and state health departments--are investigating multiple clusters in more than one state. Some clusters are undergoing traceback investigations to determine whether contaminated produce or other foods may be involved.
No Single Multistate Outbreak Identified
Despite the rising case count, officials stress that the current situation reflects surveillance activity, not a unified outbreak. Cases appear scattered across states, and investigations have not yet identified a common food source linking all illnesses.
This pattern is typical for early summer: cyclosporiasis cases increase sharply from May through August, when fresh produce consumption is high and contamination risks rise.
Where Cases Are Occurring
The 145 U.S.-acquired cases were reported across 17 states, with counts ranging from 1 to 80 depending on location. The CDC notes that the true number of infections is likely higher, as many people recover without medical care and are never tested for Cyclospora.
Because cyclosporiasis is reportable in 47 states, the District of Columbia, and New York City, health departments rely on clinicians and the public to report suspected cases--even in states where reporting is not mandatory.
Symptoms and What to Watch For
Cyclosporiasis can cause prolonged gastrointestinal illness. Anyone experiencing symptoms should contact a healthcare provider who can test and treat the infection.
Common symptoms include:
Persistent diarrhea
Loss of appetite
Weight loss
Stomach cramps
Bloating
Nausea
Fatigue
If a case is confirmed, clinicians should report it to local health departments to support ongoing surveillance and outbreak detection.
International Travel‑Related Cases
In addition to U.S.-acquired infections, the CDC reports 45 cases linked to international travel during the same period. These individuals became sick after consuming contaminated food or water abroad.
Median age: 43
62 percent female
3 hospitalizations
No deaths
Why This Matters Now
The 2026 cyclosporiasis season began May 1, and case counts typically rise through August. With multiple clusters under investigation and no identified source, public‑health officials urge vigilance:
Healthcare providers should consider Cyclospora in patients with prolonged gastrointestinal illness.
Consumers should wash produce thoroughly and stay informed about food safety alerts.
Anyone with symptoms should seek medical care promptly.
U.S. Health Warning: CDC Reports Rising Cyclosporiasis Cases as Summer Illness Season Intensifies
A new CDC health alert warns that cyclosporiasis cases are climbing across the United States, with 145 confirmed illnesses reported between May 1 and June 16, 2026. While there is no evidence of a single nationwide outbreak, public‑health officials emphasize that the growing number of cases signals an active summer illness season and ongoing investigations into multiple clusters.
What the CDC Is Seeing Right Now
Cyclosporiasis, caused by the microscopic parasite Cyclospora, is a nationally notifiable disease monitored closely across the country.
The CDC reports:
145 U.S.-acquired cases from May 1-June 16
20 hospitalizations
0 deaths
Cases reported in 17 states
Median patient age: 42
61 percent of cases occurred in females
These individuals did not travel internationally, meaning they became sick after eating contaminated food within the United States. Illness onset ranged from May 1 to June 6, with the median onset date of May 13.
Public‑health agencies--including CDC, FDA, and state health departments--are investigating multiple clusters in more than one state. Some clusters are undergoing traceback investigations to determine whether contaminated produce or other foods may be involved.
No Single Multistate Outbreak Identified
Despite the rising case count, officials stress that the current situation reflects surveillance activity, not a unified outbreak. Cases appear scattered across states, and investigations have not yet identified a common food source linking all illnesses.
This pattern is typical for early summer: cyclosporiasis cases increase sharply from May through August, when fresh produce consumption is high and contamination risks rise.
Where Cases Are Occurring
The 145 U.S.-acquired cases were reported across 17 states, with counts ranging from 1 to 80 depending on location. The CDC notes that the true number of infections is likely higher, as many people recover without medical care and are never tested for Cyclospora.
Because cyclosporiasis is reportable in 47 states, the District of Columbia, and New York City, health departments rely on clinicians and the public to report suspected cases--even in states where reporting is not mandatory.
Symptoms and What to Watch For
Cyclosporiasis can cause prolonged gastrointestinal illness. Anyone experiencing symptoms should contact a healthcare provider who can test and treat the infection.
Common symptoms include:
Persistent diarrhea
Loss of appetite
Weight loss
Stomach cramps
Bloating
Nausea
Fatigue
If a case is confirmed, clinicians should report it to local health departments to support ongoing surveillance and outbreak detection.
International Travel‑Related Cases
In addition to U.S.-acquired infections, the CDC reports 45 cases linked to international travel during the same period. These individuals became sick after consuming contaminated food or water abroad.
Median age: 43
62 percent female
3 hospitalizations
No deaths
Why This Matters Now
The 2026 cyclosporiasis season began May 1, and case counts typically rise through August. With multiple clusters under investigation and no identified source, public‑health officials urge vigilance:
Healthcare providers should consider Cyclospora in patients with prolonged gastrointestinal illness.
Consumers should wash produce thoroughly and stay informed about food safety alerts.
Anyone with symptoms should seek medical care promptly.