Rising Cases of Gastrointestinal Illness Linked to Parasite
Health officials in the U.S. are working to identify the source of a tiny parasite that causes ongoing stomach illnesses, especially as we move into the summer months. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported 145 cases of cyclosporiasis across 17 states by mid-June 2026, with all infections linked to sources within the United States.
The parasite responsible for these infections is called Cyclospora. This tiny organism can lead to an illness characterized by prolonged watery diarrhea, often described as “explosive.” If not treated, this can persist for weeks or even months, according to the CDC.
Other symptoms associated with this infection include severe abdominal cramps, bloating, nausea, fatigue, and significant weight loss. The outbreak season for Cyclospora typically runs from May 1 to August 31, coinciding with warmer weather that often leads to increased infections.
Cases have appeared in various states, from Texas to Alaska. New York is experiencing the highest numbers, reporting between 31 and 80 cases, followed by Texas and Illinois, each with 11 to 30 cases.
While some infections can resolve on their own, many require antibiotic treatment. Among the confirmed cases, 20 individuals have needed hospitalization. Thankfully, there have been no reported deaths linked to this outbreak.
Patients affected range in age from 5 to 86, with the median age being 42. Notably, women account for 61% of the reported cases. The CDC, along with the Food and Drug Administration and state health officials, is investigating several clusters of infections, but a common source has not yet been identified.
Officials are urging anyone who experiences symptoms of cyclosporiasis to seek medical attention for proper testing and treatment. The CDC emphasizes that early detection can help manage the illness effectively.
