Cyclospora Outbreak Tops 1,000 Cases Nationwide While Oklahoma Reports None

Cyclospora Outbreak Tops 1,000 Cases Nationwide While Oklahoma Reports None

A growing Cyclospora outbreak has surpassed 1,000 reported cases across the United States, but Oklahoma health officials say the state has not reported a single confirmed infection as federal investigators continue searching for the source of the illnesses. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) are investigating multiple clusters spanning more than 18 states, though no single contaminated food source has been identified.

Health experts say the parasite is most commonly linked to fresh produce and urge consumers to practice careful food handling during the summer months.

Cyclospora Outbreak Continues Expanding Across Several States

The latest Cyclospora outbreak has affected numerous states, with Michigan reporting the largest number of illnesses. State health officials say nearly 1,000 cases have been confirmed there, making it the largest Cyclospora outbreak in Michigan's history.

Other states experiencing significant increases include New York and Ohio, which have each reported hundreds of infections since late spring. Texas, Illinois, and Colorado have also confirmed active cases.

According to The Oklahoman, Oklahoma has not reported any confirmed Cyclospora cases connected to the current outbreak.

Federal investigators continue tracing possible food sources but have not identified one product responsible for illnesses reported across multiple states.

Current outbreak information is available through the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Parasite Can Cause Weeks Of Severe Illness

The Cyclospora outbreak is caused by Cyclospora cayetanensis, a microscopic parasite that infects the small intestine after people consume contaminated food or water.

Symptoms often begin about one week after exposure and may include:

• Severe watery diarrhea

• Stomach cramps

• Bloating

• Nausea

• Fatigue

• Loss of appetite

• Weight loss

Without treatment, symptoms can last for several weeks—or even months—and may come and go over time.

Health officials emphasize that Cyclospora does not spread directly from person to person. Instead, infections occur when food or water becomes contaminated with human fecal matter containing the parasite.

Young children, older adults, and people with weakened immune systems face a greater risk of severe illness and dehydration.

Medical guidance about Cyclospora is available through the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.

Health Officials Recommend Extra Precautions With Fresh Produce

While washing fruits and vegetables remains important, experts say the parasite responsible for the Cyclospora outbreak can be difficult to remove through rinsing alone.

Health officials recommend purchasing whole heads of lettuce instead of pre-packaged salad mixes whenever possible and discarding the outer leaves before washing. Cooking vegetables thoroughly also destroys the parasite.

Consumers should pay particular attention to produce historically associated with Cyclospora outbreaks, including cilantro, basil, raspberries, snow peas, and bagged salad mixes.

Experts also recommend washing produce before peeling or cutting it to help prevent contamination from being transferred into the edible portions by kitchen knives.

Although Oklahoma has not reported any confirmed cases, state residents are encouraged to practice safe food handling and seek medical attention if they experience prolonged diarrhea or severe gastrointestinal symptoms after consuming fresh produce.

Additional food safety information is available through the Oklahoma State Department of Health.

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