Cyclospora cases increase in North Carolina as health officials warn of foodborne parasite

Health officials say a microscopic parasite called Cyclospora cayetanensis has been linked to a surge of intestinal illness cases in the United States this spring. The parasite, which spreads through food or water contaminated with human feces, is most often associated with raw produce such as berries, basil, cilantro, parsley and leafy greens.

Unlike viruses that spread directly from person to person, Cyclospora requires several days to weeks of environmental development before becoming infectious, making direct transmission unlikely. Symptoms typically appear one to two weeks after exposure and include frequent watery diarrhea, abdominal cramps, nausea, fatigue and low-grade fever. Without treatment, illness can persist for weeks and may lead to dehydration, especially in vulnerable populations.

The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services has recorded at least 110 cases since May 1, 2026, though no hospitalizations have been reported in the state as of early July. Nationwide, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention notes more than 20 hospitalizations linked to the outbreak. Diagnosis relies on specific stool tests, which may need to be ordered explicitly because routine examinations often do not include Cyclospora.

Experts emphasize that washing produce under running water, even when pre-washed, does not guarantee removal of the parasite, which can cling to crevices and survive standard cleaning. Cooking food thoroughly remains the most reliable preventive measure, but many implicated items are typically consumed raw. Public health alerts and product recalls are critical for limiting exposure, and individuals who suspect infection should seek medical evaluation for appropriate testing and treatment.