Summary (tl;dr)

A widespread outbreak of cyclosporiasis, an intestinal illness caused by a parasite, is currently affecting multiple states across the U.S., prompting health officials to issue warnings about contaminated fresh produce like vegetables and raspberries.

Essential Background

Cyclosporiasis is a gastrointestinal illness caused by the microscopic parasite Cyclospora cayetanensis. This parasite is typically transmitted through the consumption of food or water contaminated with feces. While not usually life-threatening, symptoms can be unpleasant and include frequent, watery diarrhea, loss of appetite, stomach cramps, nausea, fatigue, and bloating, often lasting from a few days to over a month. Unlike many other stomach bugs, cyclosporiasis is not easily spread directly from person-to-person.

The Full Story

As of July 2026, health authorities, including the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), are actively investigating a significant increase in cyclosporiasis cases across at least 31 states in the United States. The CDC has reported 843 confirmed domestic cases since May 1, 2026, with many states indicating even higher numbers, suggesting the actual count is likely greater. Michigan is at the center of the current outbreak, reporting over 1,500 cases, with neighboring Ohio also seeing hundreds of infections. While a definitive single source for the current outbreak has not yet been identified, past cyclosporiasis outbreaks have frequently been linked to fresh produce, including bagged salad mixes, cilantro, basil, snow peas, green onions, and particularly raspberries, which are difficult to clean thoroughly. The typical season for cyclosporiasis outbreaks in the U.S. spans from May 1 through August 31.

Why It Matters

This ongoing outbreak is a significant public health concern, driving searches for terms like "stomach bug going around" and "cyclosporiasis symptoms" as people seek information about their illness. The difficulty in identifying a specific contaminated food source for the current outbreak, coupled with the fact that federal surveillance for Cyclospora became optional in 2025, complicates tracking and containment efforts. Although the illness is rarely fatal, it can lead to prolonged and debilitating symptoms, often requiring hospitalization for severe cases. This highlights the persistent challenges in food safety and the importance of thorough washing and proper handling of fresh fruits and vegetables to reduce the risk of infection.

Geographic Location

• Michigan, United States (center of the latest outbreak with over 1,500 cases reported as of July 10, 2026)
• Ohio, United States (hundreds of cases reported, including over 500 cases in counties bordering southeast Michigan, and 306 in Lucas County as of July 9, 2026)
• Illinois, United States (among states reporting high numbers of cases in the 2026 outbreak)
• New York, United States (among states reporting high numbers of cases in the 2026 outbreak)
• Texas, United States (among states reporting high numbers of cases in the 2026 outbreak)
• United States (at least 31 states are investigating or have reported cases of cyclosporiasis since May 1, 2026, with over 843 confirmed domestic cases reported to the CDC)