July 15, 2026 - 1:08pm -- garmon.22@osu.edu

As of mid-Jun 2026, we have been experiencing an unusually large outbreak of cyclosporiasis, a gastrointestinal illness caused by the microscopic parasite Cyclospora cayetanensis. Cases have been reported across multiple states, with particularly high numbers in Ohio and neighboring Michigan. Health departments continue to search for the cause of the outbreak, but no specific food item or source has yet been identified.​

Cyclosporiasis outbreaks are commonly associated with the contaminated water and fresh produce. The general route of produce contamination is through contaminated irrigation water or soil.  

More information about the cyclospora for consumers, growers, and healthcare workers can be found below:

Cyclospora for Consumers

Cyclospora for Growers

Cyclospora for Healthcare Workers

Infographic teaching viewers about the spread of cyclospora