Today is July 12, 2026, and if you’re in Hillsborough County, you might want to pay attention to some recent health news. Two cases of cyclosporiasis have been reported in our area, a gastrointestinal infection caused by the pesky parasite Cyclospora cayetanensis. This little bugger can lead to some pretty unpleasant stomach problems, primarily diarrhea, which can really throw a wrench into your summer plans.
According to the CDC, as of mid-June, they were keeping an eye on 145 confirmed cases of cyclosporiasis across 17 states, including Florida and Georgia. Dr. Adelor Zamora from HCA Florida Brandon Hospital believes the real numbers might be even higher since many folks might only experience mild symptoms, like diarrhea without realizing it’s due to this infection.
Understanding Cyclosporiasis
So, what exactly does this mean for you? Well, if you’re experiencing diarrhea that lasts more than seven days, that’s your cue to see a doctor. Symptoms often include cramps, nausea, fatigue, and they usually take about 7 to 10 days to show up after exposure. The CDC reported that individuals aged 5 to 86 have contracted this illness, with a median age of 42 and 61% of cases occurring in females. Thankfully, there have been no deaths reported, but 20 people did require hospitalization.
Interestingly, the Florida Department of Health noted that from January 1 to June 27, 2026, there were 30 cases in Florida alone, with one case each in Pasco and Polk Counties alongside the two in Hillsborough. The symptoms can last about two weeks if untreated, but don’t panic—most patients recover fully. However, those with weakened immune systems might face a tougher battle, experiencing prolonged illness.
How It Spreads and Prevention Tips
Now, here’s the kicker: cyclosporiasis is spread through contaminated food or water, not from person to person. It’s critical to take precautions, especially since the main culprits tend to be leafy greens and berries, which can be hard to clean thoroughly. The CDC and FDA are currently investigating multiple clusters related to this outbreak, but so far, no specific food source has been identified. This just goes to show how important it is to wash your fruits and veggies properly and ensure good hand hygiene!
Recommendations include buying a whole head of lettuce instead of pre-packaged varieties and peeling off the outer layers before eating. And remember, washing your hands after handling food is a must! If you start to feel symptoms like diarrhea, fever, or weakness, it’s wise to reach out to a healthcare provider.
What You Need to Know
In case you’re wondering, the diagnosis of cyclosporiasis requires stool microscopy to find those pesky Cyclospora oocysts, and you might need to provide multiple stool samples. The treatment typically involves antibiotics like Trimethoprim/Sulfamethoxazole (TMP/SMX) for 7 to 10 days, but if you have a sulfa allergy, don’t fret—there are alternatives available.
As we navigate through this summer, it’s essential to stay informed. Cyclosporiasis seems to be on the rise, especially with the warm weather, and is particularly linked to fresh produce. So, let’s all be a bit more vigilant about our food choices. Stay safe out there—we all want to enjoy the sunshine without the worry of a nasty parasite lurking in our salads!
For more detailed information on cyclosporiasis, you can check out the CDC update and understand how this outbreak is being managed.
And if you’re looking for further reading, the MSD Manual offers comprehensive insights into the infection, its symptoms, and prevention strategies.