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Health Alert

HEALTH ADVISORY #236 Cyclospora Infection Information

THIS IS AN OFFICIAL WEST VIRGINIA HEALTH ADVISORY #236

Distributed via the WV Health Alert Network – July 9, 2026

Summary

The West Virginia Bureau for Public Health (WVBPH) is investigating an increase in cyclosporiasis cases occurring across the state. As of July 9, 2026, 47 cases have been reported in West Virginia since June 17. On average West Virginia receives nine reports of Cyclospora annually. Illnesses are currently concentrated in counties along the state’s western border. At this time, epidemiologic investigations have not identified a common food item, produce supplier, grower, or distributor associated with these illnesses.

Nationally, as of July 9, 2026, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has identified 729 confirmed cases in 30 states.

Patients became ill after consuming food in the United States and did not report international travel during the 14 days before illness onset. Currently, there is no evidence of a single multistate outbreak linking all reported cases. Healthcare providers should maintain a heightened awareness for cyclosporiasis in patients presenting with prolonged or relapsing diarrheal illness, particularly those without recent international travel.

Background

Cyclosporiasis is an intestinal illness caused by the parasite Cyclospora cayetanensis. Infection occurs through the ingestion of food or water contaminated with sporulated Cyclospora oocysts. Because oocysts require days to weeks in the environment to become infectious, direct person-to-person transmission is considered unlikely.

Symptoms typically develop 2 to 14 days after exposure and commonly include:

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Prolonged watery diarrhea

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Loss of appetite

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Fatigue

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Weight loss

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Abdominal cramping

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Bloating and increased gas

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Nausea and vomiting

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Low-grade fever

Illness may last for several weeks or longer, and symptoms frequently relapse after temporary improvement if left untreated.

Historically, outbreaks in the United States have been associated with imported and domestically grown fresh produce, including cilantro, basil, broccoli, Italian parsley, pre-packaged salad mixes, raspberries, snow peas, and mesclun lettuce.

West Virginia Health Advisory Number WV236 July 9, 2026