Though public health officials have identified at least one source of the outbreak of cyclospora, people continue to become ill. 2026 the worst year on record for domestic cases of the parasitic infection.
“Any outbreak is concerning, but it doesn’t mean you are powerless,” says Anthony Zeimet, DO, an infectious diseases specialist with ThedaCare. “Adopting food safety measures and knowing the signs of illness are important steps for people to follow.”
Dr. Zeimet shares key facts around cyclospora and steps you can take to help keep yourself and your loved ones safe from foodborne illness.
Common Cyclospora Questions
What is cyclospora?
Cyclospora is a microscopic parasite that can lead to cyclosporiasis, an intestinal illness. People can become infected by consuming food or water that is contaminated with the parasite.
Typically, cyclosporiasis is more common in countries that don’t have widespread water treatment facilities. Water used for irrigating or washing crops can then become tainted with human waste. Cyclosporiasis can be more widespread in nations in Central America, South America, Asia and Africa.
Cases of cyclosporiasis in the United States are most common in the months of May through August.
How does cyclosporiasis spread?
The parasite spreads when people consume food or drink water that is contaminated with feces. Cyclosporiasis does not spread from person to person. The current outbreak has led to hospitalizations but no deaths.
What foods have been linked to cyclosporiasis?
In mid-July, grower Taylor Farms initiated a recall of all iceberg lettuce sourced from central Mexico, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The recall includes iceberg lettuce sold at retail stores and restaurants. It also includes other recalled products distributed to food service customers. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) also recently identified a new cyclosporiasis outbreak.
According to the FDA, past cyclosporiasis outbreaks in the United States have been linked to fresh produce such as raspberries, cabbage, basil, cilantro, parsley, broccoli, snow peas, sugar snap peas and leafy greens. Experts say eating packaged products such as bagged lettuce and salad mixes can increase the risk because they undergo more processing than whole heads of greens.
How can I decrease my odds of contracting cyclosporiasis?
“An unfortunate side effect of the outbreak has been the worries it casts about eating fresh produce, which is essential to good health,” Dr. Zeimet says. “You can still eat fruits and veggies while taking steps to reduce your odds of contracting a foodborne illness.”
Follow these guidelines from the Wisconsin Department of Health Services and CDC:
- When traveling and eating food abroad, do not eat raw produce or uncooked foods. If you can’t cook it, peel it, or wash it in safe water, don’t eat it. Drink only bottled water, and avoid ice.
- Wash your hands with soap and water before preparing food.
- Wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly under running water before eating, cutting or cooking them. This also applies to packaged produce that’s labeled pre-washed.
- Scrub firm fruits and vegetables, such as melons and cucumbers, with a clean produce brush.
- Cut away any damaged or bruised areas on fruits and vegetables before preparing and eating.
- Wash cutting boards, dishes, utensils and countertops with soap and hot water.
- Cooking can kill the parasite. Since washing alone cannot guarantee the parasite’s removal, cook produce to a temperature of at least 158 °F.
- Commercially frozen and canned foods are considered safe options. However, freezing fresh produce at home does not kill cyclospora.
What are the symptoms of cyclosporiasis?
People typically begin to experience symptoms of cyclosporiasis about one week after consuming food or drinking water containing cyclospora. Symptoms may appear as soon as two days or as long as two weeks after exposure.
Common symptoms include:
- Watery diarrhea
- Loss of appetite/anorexia
- Weight loss
- Cramping
- Bloating
- Increased gas
- Nausea
- Fatigue and generalized malaise
“Fatigue and malaise can be prominent early in the infectious cycle, along with development of copious, explosive, watery diarrhea that lasts for a few days,” Dr. Zeimet says. “You may start to feel better, and then symptoms return with another round of explosive diarrhea. This relapsing diarrhea is a common pattern with this illness.”
Who’s most at risk from developing complications for cyclosporiasis?
Anyone can contract cyclosporiasis, but certain groups are more vulnerable to developing serious illness or complications. These include:
- People with weakened immune systems
- Older adults
- Infants and children
What should I do if I suspect illness?
If you think you have become sick from eating potentially contaminated foods, consult your healthcare provider, especially if you have diarrhea or other severe symptoms that last for more than a few days.
“Numerous viruses and other bacteria can also cause diarrhea. Most of these cases last a couple of days,” Dr. Zeimet says. “However, if you have a relapsing pattern of diarrhea and symptoms persist beyond seven to 10 days, I would consider being tested for cyclosporiasis.”
You may need to ask for specific testing for cyclosporiasis, as standard stool tests often don’t detect the parasite. If your doctor or clinician diagnoses cyclosporiasis, they can prescribe antibiotics to shorten the course of the illness. Without treatment, symptoms can last for a month or longer.
“It’s important to stay well-hydrated if you have cyclosporiasis and any time you are experiencing diarrhea,” Dr. Zeimet says.
Know Your Care Options
If you’re concerned you may have cyclosporiasis, you can make an appointment at your ThedaCare primary care clinic or visit one of our urgent or walk-in care locations. If you’re experiencing signs of severe dehydration, visit your nearest emergency department.
“When outbreaks such as cyclosporiasis occur, it’s important not to panic,” Dr. Zeimet says. “Focus instead on prevention, education, awareness and what you can do you protect yourself. The more you know, the better equipped you are to care for yourself and loved ones.”
