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NewsTelemundo 51 Miami – MainJuly 1, 2026United States

Outbreak of Cyclospora Parasitic Infection Spreading Across the U.S.

A parasitic infection known as cyclosporiasis is causing outbreaks of severe diarrhea across the United States, with significant clusters reported in Michigan and over a dozen other states. Health officials are investigating contaminated food and water as the primary sources of transmission.

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Why It Matters

Residents in affected areas face potential health risks from contaminated food or water, requiring increased vigilance in food preparation and medical consultation if persistent gastrointestinal symptoms occur.

Key Facts

  • 190 total cases reported by the CDC as of June 16, with 145 domestic infections and 45 travel-related cases.
  • Over 170 cases reported in Michigan over a nine-day period across seven counties.
  • At least 20 people have been hospitalized; no deaths have been reported.
  • Affected individuals in the U.S. range in age from 5 to 86 years old, with 61% being female.
  • Cyclospora is a single-celled parasite transmitted through contaminated food or water, not person-to-person.
  • Common symptoms include watery or explosive diarrhea, loss of appetite, weight loss, cramps, bloating, and fatigue.
  • Symptoms can last from a few days to a month or more if left untreated and may recur.
  • Michigan county case breakdown: Monroe (70), Lenawee (33), Washtenaw (21), Wayne (12), Jackson (7), Shiawassee (7), and 24 cases across 11 other locations.
  • The parasite is frequently associated with fresh produce like raspberries, peas, mesclun lettuce, basil, and cilantro.
  • Health officials recommend washing hands and thoroughly cleaning fruits and vegetables to reduce risk.

Who's Mentioned

organizationIDPH“Illinois Department of Public Health, monitoring local cases.”organizationMDARD“Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, investigating food saf”organizationCDC“Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, leading the investigation.”personJennifer Bonsky“Director of the Food Division at MDARD.”personIrfan Hafiz“Infectious disease specialist at Northwestern Medicine.”personNatasha Bagdasarian“Chief Medical Executive for Michigan.”