Cyclosporiasis Outbreak linked to an Unknown Source

United States

A cyclosporiasis outbreak linked to contaminated food has sickened 145 people across 17 states in the United States, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The outbreak, caused by the Cyclospora parasite, resulted in 20 hospitalizations but no deaths. Cases were reported between May 1 and June 16, 2026.

The outbreak is part of the annual cyclosporiasis season, which typically sees an increase in cases from May through August. Affected individuals range in age from 5 to 86, with a median age of 42, and 61% of those affected are female. The illness onset dates range from May 1 to June 6, with a median onset date of May 13. Public health authorities, including the CDC and FDA, are actively investigating the outbreak to identify potential food sources responsible for the infections.

The problem was discovered through routine surveillance by the CDC and state health departments, which monitor cyclosporiasis cases year-round. The disease is nationally notifiable, meaning healthcare providers are required to report confirmed cases to local health departments. This surveillance helps in identifying and investigating outbreaks swiftly, allowing for timely public health interventions.