Cyclospora Outbreak Spreads Across U.S. as Cases Surge A microscopic parasite is causing widespread illness in the United States, with over 843 confirmed cases of cyclosporiasis reported as of July 9, 2026, and thousands more suspected. The outbreak has affected 31 states, with Michigan reporting the highest number of cases—nearly 2,640—since the start of the summer. Public health officials are still investigating the source of the outbreak, which is suspected to involve contaminated fresh produce, though other food items remain under consideration. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has noted a significant rise in cases compared to previous years, with state-level data indicating a sharp increase, particularly in Michigan, where the number of cases has surged over 50 times the usual annual total. Cyclosporiasis, caused by the parasite Cyclospora cayetanensis, leads to severe gastrointestinal symptoms, including watery, sometimes explosive diarrhea, cramping, gas, nausea, fatigue, and loss of appetite. These symptoms can persist for weeks, posing particular risks to young children, older adults, and immunocompromised individuals. Most healthy people recover with treatment using the antibiotic trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole, but the illness is often underdiagnosed due to its absence from standard diagnostic panels. Experts suggest that improved testing methods have contributed to the rise in reported cases, though this year’s surge appears to reflect a genuine increase rather than just better detection. The parasite spreads through contaminated food, primarily fresh produce such as raspberries, leafy herbs, and bagged salad mixes.#united_states #michigan #food_and_drug_administration #centers_for_disease_control_and_prevention #cyclospora_outbreak
