A foodborne parasite linked to severe intestinal illness has infected at least 145 people across 20 US states, according to the latest health data. The outbreak involves Cyclospora cayetanensis, a microscopic parasite that causes cyclosporiasis, a disease known for triggering explosive watery diarrhea and other gastrointestinal symptoms. The infections have been reported as the United States hosts major matches during the FIFA World Cup 2026, drawing large crowds and increased travel nationwide.
Health officials said the reported cases occurred between May and June 16, affecting individuals ranging in age from 5 to 86 years old. So far, 20 people have been hospitalized, although no deaths have been reported. Authorities are continuing to investigate the outbreak and monitor additional cases that may emerge in the coming weeks.
According to health agencies, New York has recorded the highest number of infections. Cases have also been reported in New Jersey, Washington D.C., Massachusetts, Connecticut, Rhode Island, Delaware, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia, North Carolina, Ohio, Tennessee, Wisconsin, Illinois, Georgia, Florida, Texas, Louisiana, Colorado, and Alaska. Officials believe the infections are likely linked to contaminated food because none of the affected individuals recently traveled abroad.
Cyclospora infections are commonly associated with consuming contaminated fresh produce or water. Symptoms typically appear about a week after exposure and include explosive watery diarrhea, stomach cramps, nausea, vomiting, bloating, fatigue, loss of appetite, dehydration, and low-grade fever. Some infected individuals may show no symptoms despite carrying the parasite.
Medical experts say cyclosporiasis can sometimes resolve without treatment, but untreated cases may persist for several weeks or even longer than a month. The standard treatment usually involves antibiotics, particularly trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole, which is considered effective against the parasite. Health officials are urging anyone experiencing prolonged gastrointestinal symptoms to seek medical attention.
Authorities have not yet identified the exact source of the current outbreak. However, previous Cyclospora outbreaks in the United States have been linked to fresh produce such as cilantro, basil, raspberries, mesclun lettuce, and sweet peas. While there is currently no evidence connecting the infections to World Cup venues or tournament operations, the outbreak has drawn additional attention as millions of fans continue traveling between host cities during the global football event.
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