The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is working with state and federal health agencies to investigate several cyclosporiasis outbreaks. Efforts are still underway to determine and confirm the sources of these outbreaks.
A large outbreak of cyclosporiasis has been reported in at least four Midwestern states. Public health officials are interviewing people who became ill to find out what foods they ate before their symptoms began.
So far, researchers have not confirmed that any specific food is the source. Health agencies continue to gather information in an effort to identify the cause of the outbreak.
Cases have increased since May
The CDC says it is concerned about the increase in cyclosporiasis cases since early May. In addition to the large multistate outbreak, federal and state officials are investigating several other disease clusters across the United States.
Cyclosporiasis is usually not life-threatening, but some people can become seriously ill and need hospitalization. Anyone experiencing possible symptoms should contact a healthcare provider immediately.
CDC and FDA collect data on outbreaks
The CDC, several state public health and regulatory agencies, and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) are reviewing multiple types of information as part of the investigation.
As of July 13, more than 400 people infected with Cyclospora have been reported to CDC in connection with the outbreak. Cases have been identified in Michigan, Ohio, West Virginia and Kentucky.
CDC is also aware of additional diseases that remain under investigation. People linked to the outbreak reported becoming ill starting on June 22, 2026.
Actual case count may be higher
Health officials believe the actual number of illnesses is likely higher than the confirmed total. The outbreak may also spread beyond the four states where cases have already been identified.
Some infected people recover without seeking medical care and are never tested for Cyclospora. Recent illnesses may also be missing from the official count because it can take several weeks to determine whether a case is linked to an outbreak.
To help identify the source, public health officials collect information from patients about their age, race, ethnicity, other demographic details, and the foods they ate before they got sick. These responses can reveal patterns that help investigators track contaminated foods.
What to do if you have symptoms
Contact your healthcare provider if you develop symptoms of cyclosporiasis.
Symptoms It can vary and usually appears about a week after infection (between 2 days and 2 weeks or more).
Without treatment, symptoms may continue for several days, a month, or even longer.
Help investigators find contaminated food
Local or state health officials can contact people diagnosed with cyclosporiasis. Researchers may ask what you ate in the two weeks before you got sick.
Providing detailed information can help health agencies identify the food responsible for the outbreak.
How to reduce your risk
Learn which foods are most likely to be associated with cyclosporiasis and what steps can be taken help prevent infection.
Consumers should also stay informed about food recalls and outbreaks.
Guide for healthcare providers
Health care providers should report cases of cyclosporiasis to their local health department.
Additional information on symptoms, treatment, and patient management is available through Clinical care of cyclosporiasis.