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You may have seen headlines about a growing outbreak of cyclosporiasis this summer, including a rise in cases closer to home in New York. Here’s what’s actually going on, what symptoms to watch for, and when it’s time to see a provider.
What Is Cyclosporiasis?
Cyclosporiasis is an intestinal illness caused by a microscopic parasite called Cyclospora cayetanensis. People become infected by eating or drinking food or water contaminated with the parasite. It is not usually spread person-to-person, so you can’t catch it from someone who’s sick the way you would a cold or the flu.
Cyclospora season typically runs from May through August, and case numbers tend to rise every summer. This year, health officials are seeing a bigger jump than usual.
Why Is This in the News Right Now?
As of mid-July 2026, the CDC has confirmed more than 1,600 domestically acquired cases across at least 34 states, with thousands more cases still under review. That’s a sharp increase compared to this time last year. Federal investigators have also identified a cluster of connected cases across several Midwest states and are working to trace a possible food source. Early evidence points toward leafy greens, though nothing has been confirmed.
Closer to home, New York State and New York City have also reported a rise in cases this year, and Westchester County has seen a modest uptick as well, though local officials note the numbers there remain close to a typical season. Nationally, health authorities emphasize that most people recover without needing hospitalization, and no deaths have been reported in this year’s outbreak.
What Are the Symptoms?
Cyclosporiasis symptoms typically begin about a week after exposure, though it can range from a couple of days to two weeks. Common symptoms include:
- Watery diarrhea, which can be frequent
- Loss of appetite
- Bloating and gas
- Stomach cramps
- Nausea
- Fatigue
- Weight loss
Less commonly, people may also experience a low-grade fever or vomiting. Without treatment, symptoms can come and go over a period ranging from a few days to a month or longer.
How Is It Diagnosed and Treated?
Cyclosporiasis isn’t always caught by a routine stool test, so if your symptoms line up with the illness, mention it to your provider so the right test can be ordered. Once diagnosed, cyclosporiasis is typically treated with a course of antibiotics, and most people start to feel better once treatment begins.
When Should You See a Provider?
Most cases of cyclosporiasis aren’t life-threatening, but the diarrhea and dehydration it causes can become serious if untreated. This is especially true for young children, older adults, pregnant individuals, and anyone with a weakened immune system. You should seek care if you have:
- Watery diarrhea lasting more than a few days
- Signs of dehydration, such as reduced urination, dizziness, or a very dry mouth
- Persistent stomach cramping or bloating
- Fatigue or loss of appetite that isn’t improving
How to Lower Your Risk
There’s no vaccine for cyclosporiasis, but good food safety habits can help reduce your risk:
- Wash your hands thoroughly before preparing or eating food
- Rinse fresh produce under running water, even if you plan to peel it
- Scrub firm fruits and vegetables with a clean brush
- Cut away any bruised or damaged areas on produce
- Cook food to a safe internal temperature, since heat kills the parasite
If you’ve recently traveled internationally, that can also be a source of exposure, since cyclosporiasis is more common in some tropical and subtropical regions.
When to Visit AFC Urgent Care
If you’re dealing with persistent diarrhea, stomach cramping, or other symptoms that align with cyclosporiasis, don’t wait it out. AFC Urgent Care can evaluate your symptoms, order the right testing, and get you started on treatment quickly. We offer walk-in availability and extended hours so you don’t have to wait for a primary care appointment.
Find an AFC Urgent Care near you if your symptoms are persistent, worsening, or leaving you unsure about what to do next.
Sources: CDC Cyclosporiasis Surveillance and Health Alert Network notices (July 2026); state and local health department updates from New York, Michigan, and Ohio.
