The disease is caused by several species of the microscopic parasite Cyclospora.
On Wednesday, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported 145 domestically acquired cases of cyclosporiasis across 17 states so far this year.
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Cyclosporiasis is caused by several species of the microscopic parasite Cyclospora, and is a nationally notifiable disease. People can become infected by consuming food or water that contains the parasite.
The 145 reported cases involved people who became ill between May 1 and June 16 after acquiring the infection in the United States. Of the 145 patients with available information, 20 were hospitalized, and no deaths have been reported.
The patients became sick after eating food in the United States and reported no travel outside the country during the 14 days before illness onset.
HEALTH ALERT
: A gut-wrenching, diarrhea-causing parasite has sickened more than 140 Americans in 17 states, with New York reporting the highest numbers. Health officials said the true case count of cyclosporiasis is likely much higher as peak season begins. Learn more about… pic.twitter.com/cfKzc1Ewvm
— FOX Weather (@foxweather) July 2, 2026
The CDC said there is currently no evidence of a single, multistate Cyclospora outbreak linking all cases. Rather, the figure represents a nationwide surveillance count.
The cyclosporiasis season is considered to run from May 1 through Aug. 31, when case numbers typically increase.
People infected with Cyclospora may or may not experience symptoms. Cyclospora infects the small intestine and usually causes watery diarrhea with frequent and sometimes “explosive” bowel movements. Although the illness can be prolonged if left untreated, it is generally not life-threatening.
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Source: CDC – Xinhua
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