Hawaii health department reports fourth cyclosporiasis case
A military service member stationed in Hawaii has been confirmed as the fourth cyclosporiasis patient this year, with officials still assessing whether the infection was acquired locally or abroad.
The Hawaii Department of Health announced a fourth confirmed case of cyclosporiasis, identifying the patient as a military service member based on the islands. The individual had traveled internationally before returning to Hawaii and falling ill. Health officials said the timing of travel, symptom onset and the parasite’s incubation period make it unclear whether the infection was contracted locally or during the trip. > "There is no evidence changing the overall risk level in Hawaii, which remains low for the general public," DOH investigators said.
The case brings the 2026 total to four. The first involved a non-resident visitor who contracted the illness outside the state, while the second and third cases were Hawaii residents who had traveled abroad. Cyclosporiasis is caused by the parasite Cyclospora cayetanensis, which spreads through contaminated food or water, often linked to imported fresh produce. Person-to-person transmission is rare.
Symptoms typically appear about a week after exposure and include watery diarrhea, loss of appetite, weight loss, abdominal cramps, bloating, nausea, gas, fatigue, and occasionally vomiting or low-grade fever. Without treatment, symptoms may persist for weeks and recur. The illness is treatable with prescription antibiotics, and those with persistent diarrhea are advised to seek medical care.
Public health officials recommend thorough hand washing with soap and water, rinsing fresh fruits and vegetables under running water before preparation, and consulting a healthcare provider if severe diarrhea develops after travel.