07/15/2026
South Park called this years ago
A microscopic parasite capable of causing weeks of relentless, sometimes explosive diarrhea is surging across the United States.
As of July 9, 2026, the CDC had received reports of 843 confirmed domestically acquired cases of cyclosporiasis across 31 states. At least 86 people have been hospitalized, while no deaths have been reported. Officials are also reviewing more than 1,500 additional cases to determine whether they meet the CDC’s criteria.
The infection is caused by Cyclospora cayetanensis, a microscopic parasite transmitted through contaminated food or water. U.S. outbreaks have historically been associated with fresh produce, but investigators have not yet identified a single food responsible for the current increase. Several clusters are now being investigated by federal and state health authorities.
Symptoms commonly include frequent watery diarrhea, stomach cramps, bloating, nausea, appetite loss, weight loss and extreme fatigue. Without treatment, the illness can continue for more than a month, sometimes disappearing briefly before returning. Routine stool examinations may miss the parasite, so people with persistent symptoms may need to ask specifically for Cyclospora testing.
The CDC recommends washing produce thoroughly under running water, scrubbing firm fruits and vegetables, removing damaged areas and quickly refrigerating cut or peeled produce. However, washing cannot guarantee that every parasite has been removed.
Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Surveillance of Cyclosporiasis, updated July 10, 2026.