Atlanta, Georgia — Federal health officials are investigating a significant increase in Cyclospora infections across the United States after thousands of confirmed and suspected cases were reported this summer, prompting the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to issue a nationwide health alert.
According to the CDC, 1,645 confirmed cases of cyclosporiasis had been reported as of July 13, while more than 5,100 additional suspected cases remain under investigation. The outbreak has affected 34 states, making it one of the largest seasonal increases seen in recent years.
Four States Appear to Be Linked in the Investigation
While cases have been identified across much of the country, CDC investigators say a cluster involving Michigan, Ohio, West Virginia, and Kentucky is believed to be connected.
Health officials are working with state agencies to determine whether people in those states were exposed to the same contaminated food source.
Michigan has reported particularly high numbers, with the state’s Department of Health and Human Services tracking more than 2,600 infections as of July 13, suggesting the overall number of illnesses may be significantly higher than national confirmed totals.
Officials caution that many infections are never officially diagnosed because some people recover without seeking medical treatment.
Investigators Focus on Possible Produce Contamination
Although investigators have not identified a single contaminated food item, the CDC and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) are examining several possible sources.
According to federal officials, investigators are reviewing multiple produce items, including lettuce, after Michigan health officials identified it as a potential source of contamination.
Public health teams are also interviewing patients to determine where they shopped, ate, or traveled before becoming ill in hopes of identifying common exposure points.
If contaminated products are confirmed, the FDA says it will work to remove them from the food supply and notify consumers as quickly as possible.
What Is Cyclospora and What Symptoms Should You Watch For?
Cyclosporiasis is an intestinal illness caused by the parasite Cyclospora cayetanensis.
According to the CDC, symptoms typically develop between two days and two weeks after infection and may include:
- Explosive or frequent diarrhea
- Stomach cramps
- Nausea
- Fatigue
- Loss of appetite
- Weight loss
- Bloating and increased gas
Health officials say symptoms can last for weeks if left untreated, although many people experience mild illness and never undergo testing.
CDC Says Cases Are Rising Faster Than Previous Years
Federal health officials say this year’s outbreak is substantially larger than those seen in recent seasons.
According to CDC Deputy Director Gwen Biggerstaff, the number of confirmed and suspected infections is “much higher than what we’ve seen last year or the year before.”
As laboratories continue testing patient samples, investigators are comparing genetic and epidemiological data to determine whether multiple outbreaks are linked to the same contaminated food source or involve several unrelated sources.
For now, the CDC encourages healthcare providers to remain alert for Cyclospora infections and advises anyone experiencing persistent diarrhea or other symptoms after eating fresh produce to seek medical evaluation.
The investigation remains ongoing, and officials say additional information will be released as more evidence becomes available.
Have you or someone you know recently experienced symptoms after eating fresh produce? Share your thoughts or experiences in the comments, and remember to seek medical care if symptoms become severe or persist.
