Cyclospora Cases Are Rising: What Parents Should Know 

By: Dr. Marta Berio Alvarez, MD Medical Director, After Hours Pediatrics Urgent Care 

Summer usually brings plenty of fresh fruit, salads, cookouts, and meals on the go. It can also bring an increase in certain foodborne illnesses, including cyclosporiasis. 

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is reporting a significant rise in Cyclospora cases across the United States. As of July 13, 2026, more than 1,600 locally acquired cases had been reported across 34 states. Health officials expect that number to grow as additional cases are diagnosed and reported. (CDC) 

What is Cyclospora? 

Cyclospora is a microscopic parasite that causes an intestinal illness called cyclosporiasis. People can become infected after consuming food or water contaminated with the parasite. 

Cases are most common during the spring and summer. Previous outbreaks have been connected to different types of fresh produce, but health officials have not confirmed a specific food or product responsible for the current increase. (CDC) 

Cyclospora is not usually passed directly from one person to another. 

What symptoms should parents watch for? 

Symptoms commonly begin about one week after exposure, although they can appear anywhere from two days to two weeks later. 

Watery diarrhea is the most common symptom. It may be frequent and continue for several days. Other symptoms can include: 

• Stomach cramps or bloating 
• Nausea 
• Loss of appetite 
• Weight loss 
• Increased gas 
• Fatigue 
• Vomiting 
• Low-grade fever 

One thing that makes Cyclospora different from a typical short stomach bug is that symptoms may improve and then return. Without treatment, the illness can last for weeks or longer. Fatigue may continue even after the stomach symptoms have stopped. (CDC) 

When should your child be checked? 

Contact a healthcare provider if your child has ongoing watery diarrhea, symptoms that keep returning, difficulty drinking fluids, or concerns about dehydration. 

Be sure to mention recent travel and any foods your child may have eaten. Cyclospora may require a specific stool test because it is not always detected through routine testing. 

A healthcare provider can decide if testing or treatment is appropriate based on your child’s symptoms and medical history. 

Can Cyclospora be prevented? 

There is no way to completely remove the risk, but safe food-handling habits can help lower it. 

Wash your hands with soap and water before and after preparing fruits and vegetables. Rinse produce thoroughly under running water before eating, cutting, or cooking it, including items labeled pre-washed. Scrub firm produce with a clean produce brush and refrigerate cut or peeled fruits and vegetables within two hours. (CDC) 

Parents do not need to avoid all fresh produce. Continue following trusted food-safety guidance and watch for updates from the CDC and FDA as investigations continue. 

Why After Hours Pediatrics Is Here for You 

For over 28 years, After Hours Pediatrics Urgent Care has specialized exclusively in pediatric care from newborns through age 21. We’re open evenings, weekends, and most holidays, so you have a trusted option when your pediatrician’s office is closed. Our providers are experienced in evaluating infants and young children, and we’ll always let you know if your child needs a higher level of care. 

You don’t have to figure it out alone. When you’re unsure, we’re here. 

Find your nearest After Hours Pediatrics location at afterhourspediatrics.com. Walk-ins are always welcome. 

Dr. Marta Berio Alvarez, MD is the Medical Director for After Hours Pediatrics Urgent Care and an experienced pediatrician who has cared for children for more than four decades.