NewsFox 13 News (WTVT) — All NewsAugust 31, 2026Hillsborough
USDA closes two research projects studying cyclospora parasite
The United States Department of Agriculture is ending two research projects focused on cyclospora, a foodborne parasite that has caused infections in 20 states this summer. The closure occurs as national case numbers continue to rise.
Read the full story at Fox 13 News (WTVT) — All NewsWhy It Matters
The termination of these projects removes federal research capacity dedicated to understanding and mitigating a parasite currently affecting residents across 20 states.
Key Facts
- The USDA is closing two research projects dedicated to studying cyclospora.
- Cyclospora is a foodborne parasite.
- Infections have been reported in 20 states during the summer.
- The closures are occurring while national case numbers are increasing.
Who's Mentioned
locationBeltsville Agricultural Center“The site where the research projects were previously located.”organizationFood and Drug Administration“Federal agency conducting inspections related to the outbreak.”organizationU.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention“Federal agency tracking the cyclospora outbreak statistics.”othercyclospora“A foodborne parasite that is the subject of the shuttered research.”organizationUnited States Department of Agriculture“Federal agency managing agricultural research and food safety.”other17,180“Total number of people sickened by the parasite.”other922“Number of hospitalizations reported earlier this summer.”organizationTaylor Farms de Mexico“Subject of an onsite inspection by the FDA.”other17,000“Number of laboratory-confirmed cyclospora cases.”