US cyclosporiasis outbreak 2026

In summer 2026, a widespread outbreak of cyclosporiasis, caused by the Cyclospora cayetanensis parasite, affected thousands across the United States, with United States — Michigan reporting over 3,700 cases by mid-July, far exceeding its typical annual count of 50. Other states including New York, United States — Ohio, United States — Illinois, United States — Florida, and United States — Colorado also saw significant spikes. The source remains unidentified, though past outbreaks have been linked to fresh produce like leafy greens, berries, and herbs. Health agencies such as the CDC, FDA, and state health departments are investigating, but resource constraints under the Trump administration have hampered coordination. No deaths have been reported, but hospitalizations have occurred. The outbreak highlights challenges in tracing contamination in globalized food supply chains.