Hundreds of cases of cyclosporiasis — which causes severe diarrhea — have recently been documented in the New York area.
The Centers for Disease Control said Friday that as many as 160 New Yorkers are ailing from the infection in the city and beyond. Nearly 400 cases have been reported since May with roughly two-thirds of those affecting the five boroughs.
“Since May 1, 2026, CDC has received reports of 843 confirmed domestic cases of cyclosporiasis and is aware of more than 1,500 cases that require further analysis to confirm the illness as domestically acquired cyclosporiasis,” health officials said.
More than 30 states recorded claims of illness. The CDC said it saw an increase in cases over the past couple of weeks compared to the same period in 2025.
Nearly 1,000 people in Michigan were recently diagnosed with a parasitic infection causing watery diarrhea. That unprecedented state problem contributed to one of the largest national outbreak in years. It’s likely many cases went unreported nationally.
The New York State Department of Health describes cyclosporiasis as a microscopic parasite that “can affect the intestinal tract and cause diarrhea” for people who become infected by consuming contaminated food or water.
Infection is unlikely to be spread directly between individuals. U.S. outbreaks have historically been linked to imported fresh produce including cilantro, salad mix, basil, snow peas and raspberries. A specific cause for the ongoing outbreak hasn’t been identified.
Cyclosporiasis is known morso to be uncomfortable than deadly. It’s treated with antibiotics. Thoroughly washing, peeling or cooking foods that could store contaminants is recommended to avoid illness.
With News Wire Services
