Health Officials Investigate Local Cyclosporiasis Case in Hawaii
HONOLULU – The Hawaii Department of Health (DOH) is looking into a sixth case of cyclosporiasis, a tropical illness that may have been contracted within the state. This case involves a resident from Oahu who fell ill at the end of July, having not traveled outside of Hawaii during the time of potential exposure.
Previously, five other cases reported since early July involved individuals who had traveled outside of the state.
Investigation Ongoing for Local Sources
Because this latest case did not involve travel, DOH investigators are thoroughly examining possible food and environmental sources to establish how the infection might have been contracted locally. Currently, no specific source of contamination has been identified.
Health officials have indicated that while cyclosporiasis can pop up here and there, especially in tropical regions, one case acquired locally does not significantly change the overall risk for the general public, which they deem remains low. The DOH is committed to keeping the public informed as they make progress in their investigation.
Understanding Cyclosporiasis
Cyclosporiasis is caused by a tiny parasite known as Cyclospora cayetanensis. People typically get infected by eating food or drinking water that has been tainted with the parasite. Symptoms generally start about a week after exposure but can appear anywhere from two days to two weeks later. The most common symptom is watery diarrhea, which may be frequent. Other symptoms can include loss of appetite, weight loss, stomach cramps, nausea, increased gas, fatigue, and occasionally, vomiting or low-grade fever.
To help prevent cyclosporiasis, health experts recommend:
- Washing hands with soap and water before preparing or eating food, and after using the bathroom.
- Rinsing fresh fruits and vegetables under running water before eating or cooking them.
- Seeking medical advice if you experience severe diarrhea or symptoms that last longer than a few days.
Cyclosporiasis can be treated effectively with prescription antibiotics. If left untreated, symptoms can persist for weeks. It’s advised to reach out to a healthcare provider if diarrhea continues beyond a few days. Doctors who suspect a cyclosporiasis infection should report cases to the DOH and send specimens for testing.
Unlike some infections, Cyclospora does not spread directly from person to person. Instead, it is found in the feces of infected individuals and must develop outside the body before it can cause infection. In the U.S., past outbreaks have often been connected to certain fresh produce.
Multistate Outbreak Linked to Iceberg Lettuce
National and local health authorities are currently investigating a larger outbreak of cyclosporiasis that has been linked to iceberg lettuce processed by Taylor Farms de Mexico. A recall for all iceberg lettuce from this supplier was issued on July 17, 2026. While the outbreak is serious, it is noted that no iceberg lettuce related to this recall was distributed or sold in Hawaii.
The DOH, along with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, is diligently working to determine if any cases in Hawaii are associated with this or similar multistate outbreaks.
Stay tuned for updates as the investigation unfolds.
