Since May 1, 2026, the CDC has reported more than 1,645 confirmed domestic cases of cyclosporiasis and is aware of over 5,100 additional cases that require further investigation to confirm them as domestically acquired cyclosporiasis. This year, multiple states have observed an increase in cases compared to the same timeframe in 2025.

Understanding Cyclosporiasis

Cyclosporiasis is caused by a parasite known as Cyclospora cayetanensis. The parasite is spread by the fecal-oral route when human feces containing Cyclospora oocysts (the egg-like life stage) are released into environment. Due to the oocysts' thickened outer shell, Cyclospora can survive in the environment for weeks before maturing and becoming infectious. People become infected when they consume food or water contaminated with these oocysts (O’Bannon et al., 2026). Cyclospora is spread only by humans and are not associated with animals. Therefore, it is critical for produce farms to have effective worker health and hygiene programs in place to prevent this parasite from coming in contact directly or indirectly with produce. It is also essential to properly assess and manage water sources that may come in contact with the edible portion of the fruit.

The NC Department of Health and Human Services has reported that cases of cyclosporiasis began to emerge on May 1, 2026. As of July 14, 2026, 307 cases have been confirmed in the state, with 13 hospitalizations reported. The cyclosporiasis cases in North Carolina do not appear to be associated with the outbreak in other states involving Taco Bell per the latest press release from the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services released on July 17, 2026. These numbers in North Carolina remain somewhat typical for summer infections. Outbreaks of cyclosporiasis are not uncommon and tend to occur primarily during the summer months.

Current Investigation Status

As of July 20, 2026 public health officials in Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Ohio, and West Virginia are investigating a multi state outbreak of cyclosporiasis. FDA and CDC have linked a subcluster of this outbreak to shredded iceberg lettuce. Taylor Farms has issued a voluntary recall of iceberg lettuce sourced from central Mexico, and Taco Bell has removed the affected product from its restaurants. A separate, broader investigation into additional cyclosporiasis clusters across the country continues, and no specific product has been identified as the source of those clusters (IFPA, 2026).

Valuable Resources

To keep you well-informed about Cyclospora, we are sharing a valuable resource recently released by the International Fresh Produce Association (IFPA), titled What is Cyclospora? FAQs from IFPA. This document offers comprehensive information regarding this foodborne illness, the ongoing outbreak, how the parasite spreads, consumer guidance, testing and traceback processes, as well as federal regulations and buyer requirements aimed at preventing Cyclospora in produce farming. It also addresses the complexities and challenges posed by this parasite.

The practices outlined in the Food Safety Modernization Act’s (FSMA) Produce Safety Rule and third-party Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) Certifications required by produce buyers are designed to prevent contamination of fresh fruits and vegetables from pathogens, including bacteria, viruses, and parasites.

The Association of Food and Drug Officials (AFDO) has another great resource that helps understand the process of how Cyclospora outbreaks are investigated titled “Investigating Fresh Produce Cyclospora Outbreaks”.

To review more in depth research regarding Cyclospora cayetanensis you can also visit the Center for Produce Safety website.

Health Considerations

Finally, it is essential to note (as mentioned in the IFPA FAQ) that infections with Cyclospora generally have a favorable prognosis, even for immunocompromised individuals, and no significant long-term health effects have been reported. Consuming fresh fruits and vegetables is vital for a healthy diet. If you or a loved one are immunocompromised, we strongly recommend you contact your health care provider for recommendations regarding consumption of fresh produce. The reassuring news is that most people who become ill recover completely, including those with weakened immune systems, and there have been no reported lasting health effects.

If you are a North Carolina grower or packer with questions regarding practices or about Cyclospora prevention, please feel free to reach out to Area Specialized Agents:

• Elena Rogers, Area Specialized Agent, Food Safety/Fresh Produce for Western NC/Piedmont: elena_rogers@ncsu.edu or (828) 352-2519
• Dr. Chip Simmons, Area Specialized Agent, Food Safety/Fresh Produce for Eastern NC: odsimmon@ncsu.edu or (919) 414-5632

Sources

O'Bannon, T., Danyluk, M., Schneider, K. & Krug, M. (2022). Prevention of Cyclospora contamination and transmission on the farm. [Factsheet] https://ask.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/FS440

IFPA (2026). What is Cyclospora? FAQs from IFPA. Retrieved July 20, 2026 https://www.freshproduce.com/who-we-are/commentary/cyclospora-faqs/