CDC reports 145 Cyclospora infections across 17 U.S. states

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said 145 people aged five to 86 were diagnosed with Cyclospora cayetanensis infection from May 1 to June 16, marking a multi-state outbreak. Cases have been identified in 17 states, the highest numbers in New York, where health officials report between 31 and 80 infections. Illinois and Texas each have between 11 and 30 cases, while the remaining states have reported fewer than ten.

Twenty of the patients required hospitalization, but no fatalities have been recorded. All affected individuals reported no recent international travel, leading officials to suspect a domestic food source, though the specific items have not been disclosed.

Cyclospora causes cyclosporiasis, a nationally notifiable disease characterized by watery diarrhea, loss of appetite, weight loss, abdominal cramping, bloating, increased gas, nausea and fatigue. Less common symptoms include vomiting, body aches, headache, low-grade fever and other flu-like signs. Symptoms typically appear about a week after exposure and may persist for several days to over a month. While the infection can resolve without antibiotics, treatment can shorten the illness.

"Local, state and federal (CDC, FDA) public health authorities are investigating several clusters of cases in more than one state. Investigations to identify potential sources are ongoing," the CDC said.

The agency notes that cyclosporiasis cases usually rise during the summer, defining May 1 through August 31 as the seasonal period. Historically, most U.S. infections have been linked to contaminated food or water consumed abroad, but the current outbreak appears to be domestically acquired. The CDC continues to monitor the situation and urges healthcare providers to report any new cases.