Investigation Underway for Cyclospora Outbreak Linked to Fresh Produce

US health officials are investigating a significant rise in cyclosporiasis cases, potentially linked to fresh produce. With over 1,600 confirmed cases and thousands more under review, experts are advising caution regarding certain foods. The CDC has not yet identified a specific source, but previous outbreaks have been associated with various fresh items. Health professionals are urging the public to be mindful of food safety as investigations continue. Read on to discover what foods have been linked to past outbreaks and expert recommendations on safe consumption.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jul 15, 2026, 02:50 IST

Rising Cases of Cyclospora Prompt Health Officials to Act

Health authorities in the United States are currently probing a potential link between fresh produce and a surge in cyclosporiasis cases, a parasitic infection that can lead to diarrhea and other gastrointestinal issues. As of July 13, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported over 1,600 confirmed cases, with an additional 5,000 infections under investigation. Data from various states indicates that the actual number of cases could be significantly higher. In Michigan alone, health officials are monitoring more than 2,600 infections, as stated by the state's Department of Health and Human Services.

The illness is caused by the Cyclospora cayetanensis parasite, which is generally transmitted through contaminated food or water. Although the CDC has yet to pinpoint the source of the recent uptick in cases, they have indicated that not all reported infections are connected to a single outbreak across multiple states. In Michigan, officials are particularly examining whether lettuce might be the cause of the outbreak, while keeping other food items as potential sources.

Infection typically occurs after consuming food or water tainted with fecal matter, according to the CDC. Previous outbreaks of cyclosporiasis have been associated with various fresh produce items.

Foods Associated with Past Outbreaks

The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services, along with the Outbreak Database, has identified several foods linked to earlier outbreaks in the U.S. and Canada, including:

Bagged salad mixes and kits

Basil

Blackberries

Carrots and celery

Cilantro

Green onions

Green peas

Leaf lettuce

Parsley

Onions

Raspberries

Romaine lettuce

Snow peas

Strawberries

Tomato salad

Zucchini

Officials have not confirmed whether any of these items are responsible for the current rise in cases.

Expert Opinions

Dr. Rabia de Latour, a gastroenterologist at NYU Langone, advised USA Today that she is currently avoiding certain fresh produce until the source of the outbreak is determined. She specifically mentioned steering clear of bagged lettuce, cilantro, parsley, and raspberries, while noting that fruits with protective skins, like bananas, oranges, and kiwis, are safe to consume if washed properly. "We have to provide general advice at this point because the source remains unknown," she stated. Dr. de Latour emphasized that while cyclosporiasis is treatable and rarely fatal, it can pose serious health risks for immunocompromised individuals or those with other vulnerabilities.