Clinical Report: CDC Updates Cyclosporiasis Surveillance

Overview

The CDC reports a significant increase in domestically acquired cyclosporiasis cases, with 1,645 confirmed cases since May 1, 2026, compared to the same period in 2025. The agency is updating surveillance more frequently due to the rise in cases and ongoing investigations into multiple outbreaks.

Background

Cyclosporiasis, caused by the parasite Cyclospora, is a nationally notifiable gastrointestinal disease in 47 states, the District of Columbia, and New York City. The recent surge in cases highlights the need for enhanced surveillance and reporting, as the disease is often linked to contaminated food or water. Understanding the epidemiology of cyclosporiasis is crucial for public health interventions.

Data Highlights

As of July 13, 2026, the CDC reported:

• 1,645 laboratory-confirmed domestically acquired cases from 34 states.
• 141 patients were hospitalized, with no reported deaths.
• 440 travel-associated cases reported from 35 states.
• The median age of patients was 44 years, with a range from 2 to 95 years.

The CDC notes an approximately 6-week lag between illness onset and case reporting.

Key Findings

• Increased frequency of surveillance updates by the CDC due to rising case counts.
• 1,645 confirmed cases of domestically acquired cyclosporiasis reported since May 1, 2026.
• 34 states reported laboratory-confirmed cases, with a median illness onset date of June 22, 2026.
• 141 hospitalizations occurred among confirmed cases, with no fatalities reported.
• 440 travel-associated cases were documented, with patients reporting food or water consumption outside the U.S. and 20 hospitalizations, with no deaths reported.

Clinical Implications

Clinicians should be aware of the need for specific testing for Cyclospora, as it may not be included in routine gastrointestinal panels.

Conclusion

The CDC's enhanced surveillance and reporting efforts are essential in managing the current rise in cyclosporiasis cases.

Related Resources & Content

1. CDC, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2026 -- Update on CDC's Cyclosporiasis Response
2. Stat News, 2026 -- As cyclospora illnesses surge to a record, Michigan officials eye lettuce as a possible cause
3. Stat News, 2026 -- Outbreak of diarrhea-causing parasite grows to more than 1,000 cases
4. CDC, Clinical Guidance for Cyclosporiasis
5. CDC, Surveillance of Cyclosporiasis
6. Open Forum Infectious Diseases — Investigation of Community-Associated Carbapenem-Resistant Organisms in New York City
7. conexiant — Hospital-based Clinical Surveillance and Pediatric Diseases
8. CDC - Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (via Public) / Transcript - Update on CDC's Cyclosporiasis Response – 7/14/26
9. Clinical Guidance for Cyclosporiasis | Cyclosporiasis | CDC
10. Surveillance of Cyclosporiasis | Cyclosporiasis | CDC