Cyclosporiasis is an intestinal illness caused by the parasite Cyclospora cayetanensis. Infection occurs after a person consumes food or water contaminated with the parasite.
Current Outbreak
- There is currently a significant multistate outbreak of cyclosporiasis in the U.S. Latest information →
- The Mississippi State Department of Health has recently required reporting of any cyclosporiasis cases in the state.
- At this time, none of Mississippi's reported cases have been linked to the multistate outbreak under investigation by the CDC.
- Most U.S. outbreaks have been linked to fresh produce, including leafy greens, herbs and berries. Illness is not usually spread from person to person.
- Symptoms include mild to severe diarrhea, nausea and sometimes explosive bowel movements. Cyclosporiasis is not usually life-threatening.
Preventive Steps to Take
- The CDC has advised against eating shredded iceberg lettuce served at Taco Bell locations in several midwestern states. Details →
- Mississippians should thoroughly wash lettuce and other vegetables, fresh fruits and herbs under clean running water before using, including produce that will be peeled or cut. Remove damaged or bruised areas and discard produce that appears spoiled.
- Washing produce reduces the risk of possible infection, but does not guarantee that produce is safe to eat. Thorough cooking in addition to washing will kill the Cyclospora parasite.
On This Page
Symptoms
Symptoms typically begin about one week after exposure, but can begin anywhere from two to 14 days after exposure. Symptoms range from mild to severe; some infected people may have no symptoms.
Common symptoms include:
- Frequent, watery diarrhea
- Loss of appetite
- Weight loss
- Abdominal cramping and bloating
- Nausea
- Fatigue
- Low-grade fever
- Increased gas
- Vomiting (less common)
If left untreated, symptoms may last for several weeks or months, and may improve and then return.
People at greater risk for severe or prolonged illness include:
- Young children
- Older adults
- People with weakened immune systems
When to Seek Medical Care
Contact a healthcare provider if you experience:
- Diarrhea lasting more than a few days
- Severe dehydration
- Bloody diarrhea
- Persistent vomiting
- High fever
- Symptoms following travel or consumption of recalled produce
How Cyclosporiasis Spreads
People become infected by swallowing infectious Cyclospora parasites in contaminated food or water.
Common sources include:
- Fresh fruits and vegetables
- Herbs
- Salad mixes
- Untreated or contaminated water
Cyclosporiasis is not usually spread:
- Directly from person to person
- Through routine contact with an infected individual
Unlike some other intestinal parasites, Cyclospora requires days to weeks in the environment before it becomes infectious. Because of this, freshly passed stool from an infected person is not immediately infectious.
Prevention
You can reduce your risk of cyclosporiasis by:
- Washing hands thoroughly with soap and water before preparing or eating food and after using the restroom.
- Washing fresh fruits and vegetables under running water before eating, cutting or cooking.
- Refrigerating perishable foods promptly.
- Drinking water from safe, treated sources.
- Following food safety recommendations when traveling internationally.
IMPORTANT
Because Cyclospora parasites can adhere tightly to produce, routine washing may reduce but does not completely eliminate the risk of infection. Cooking foods thoroughly kills the parasite.
For Healthcare Providers
Questions and Answers
How is cyclosporiasis diagnosed?
Diagnosis requires laboratory testing of a stool specimen. Routine stool examinations may not detect Cyclospora, so healthcare providers should specifically request testing when cyclosporiasis is suspected. Many clinical laboratories offer molecular (PCR) gastrointestinal panels that include Cyclospora.Does the Mississippi State Department of Health (MSDH) test for or diagnose cyclosporiasis?
No. MSDH does not provide diagnostic testing for cyclosporiasis. If you think you may have cyclosporiasis, please contact your primary care provider or another healthcare provider for evaluation, testing and treatment.Is cyclosporiasis reportable in Mississippi?
Yes. While cyclosporiasis has historically not been a reportable disease in Mississippi, the Mississippi State Department of Health (MSDH) issued a Health Alert Network notification on July 15, 2026, making cyclosporiasis Class 1B reportable in Mississippi through July 2027. Healthcare providers and laboratories must report suspected or confirmed cases to the MSDH by telephone (601-576-7725 or 601‑576‑7400 after hours) within one business day after first knowledge or suspicion, in accordance with the Rules and Regulations Governing Reportable Diseases and Conditions.What should I do if I think I have cyclosporiasis?
If you have diarrhea lasting more than a few days, severe stomach cramps, signs of dehydration, or symptoms after eating fresh produce or traveling internationally, contact your healthcare provider. Early diagnosis and treatment can help shorten the duration of illness.Resources
- Cyclosporiasis information from the CDC
- Cyclosporiasis Clinical Overview (CDC)
- Cyclosporiasis Outbreaks and Investigations (CDC)
- CDC Health Alert Network: Domestically Acquired Cyclosporiasis Cases in Multiple U.S. States (July 14, 2026)
- Mississippi Health Alert Network: Temporary Designation of Cyclosporiasis (Cyclospora cayetanensis infection) as a Class 1B Reportable Disease (July 14, 2026)
