CDC Probes Parasitic Illness Linked to Over 400 Cases Across 18 U.S. States

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is investigating a parasitic illness associated with over 400 reported cases across 18 states, which has led to severe gastrointestinal symptoms including watery diarrhea, cramps, nausea, and fever. The parasite, identified as cyclospora, is transmitted through contaminated fresh produce or water exposed to human fecal matter. It causes an intestinal infection known as cyclosporiasis.

From May 1 to June 16, 145 cases were confirmed in 17 states, including 20 hospitalizations. The illness is not typically fatal, and no deaths have been linked to the current surge in cases. New York, Texas, Illinois, and Michigan have seen the highest number of infections. Other affected states include Alaska, Colorado, Connecticut, Florida, Georgia, Louisiana, Massachusetts, New Jersey, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia, and Wisconsin.

Michigan’s health department has identified an unusually large and expanding outbreak, with over 300 cases reported since June 22—significantly exceeding the state’s typical annual count of around 50. Similarly, New York has recorded 107 cases since May 1, more than doubling compared to the same period in 2025, according to local reports. No travel history to affected regions has been reported by infected individuals, suggesting a domestic food or water source may be responsible.

The CDC, in collaboration with the Food and Drug Administration and local health authorities, is actively investigating potential clusters and exposure sources. Cyclospora typically spreads seasonally from late spring through summer, often linked to unpasteurized produce such as berries, herbs like cilantro and basil, and leafy greens like spinach. Symptoms usually appear within two days to two weeks after ingestion, though not all exposed individuals become ill.

Most healthy individuals recover within days or weeks without treatment. In more severe cases, particularly among immunocompromised patients, antibiotics are recommended. The CDC emphasizes prevention through thorough washing of fresh produce, as well as handwashing and surface sanitization in food preparation areas. Those experiencing persistent diarrhea, fever, or abdominal pain should seek medical advice and report positive diagnoses to local health departments. Adequate fluid intake is crucial to prevent dehydration during illness.

Person-to-person transmission of cyclospora is rare, but the health agency continues to monitor evolving data and distribute updates as more information becomes available.

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