SouthernWorldwide.com – Federal health officials are working diligently to identify the origin of a microscopic parasite that is causing prolonged gastrointestinal distress, as the number of domestic cases rises with the summer season.
As of mid-June 2026, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) had confirmed 145 cases of cyclosporiasis across 17 states. Importantly, all these infections were acquired within the United States.
The pathogen responsible is known as Cyclospora, a microscopic parasite that leads to the illness called cyclosporiasis.
The most prominent symptom of this infection is watery, and often “explosive,” diarrhea. This can persist for weeks, or even months, if left untreated, according to the CDC.
Other distressing symptoms include severe abdominal cramping, bloating, nausea, fatigue, and significant, unexplained weight loss.
The CDC designates the period from May 1 to August 31 as the official outbreak season for this parasite. Historically, warmer temperatures during this window coincide with an increase in infections.
Cases have been reported in a wide range of states, from Texas all the way to Alaska. New York has reported the highest number of cases so far, with 31 to 80 confirmed infections. Texas and Illinois follow closely, each reporting between 11 and 30 cases.
While the infection can sometimes resolve on its own, it frequently necessitates antibiotic treatment. The CDC data indicates that out of the 145 confirmed cases, 20 individuals required hospitalization.
To date, no fatalities have been reported in connection with these cases. The affected individuals range in age from 5 to 86 years old, with the median age being 42. Notably, women constitute 61% of the reported cases.
The CDC, in collaboration with the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and state health officials, is actively investigating several clusters of cases that span multiple states. However, they have not yet identified a definitive source or cause for the current spread.
In its surveillance report, the CDC stated, “There is currently no evidence of a single, multistate Cyclospora outbreak linking all cases.” This suggests the infections may be stemming from multiple, unconnected sources.
The CDC strongly advises anyone experiencing symptoms consistent with cyclosporiasis to seek medical attention. Contacting a healthcare provider for proper testing and treatment is crucial.
