Published on July 20, 2026
Tompkins County Whole Health (TCWH) is updating residents about cyclosporiasis, an intestinal illness caused by the parasite Cyclospora cayetanensis, following an outbreak in several states. As of July 18, 2026, the U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA) has not yet determined whether the recent outbreak is a result of contaminated iceberg lettuce; the investigation is on-going and more details will be provided when available. While there are currently no confirmed cases of cyclosporiasis in Tompkins County, community members are encouraged to always take steps to reduce their risk of infection through safe food handling practices.
Since May 1, 2026, the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) has reported 1,644 confirmed cases of cyclosporiasis nationwide. This represents a significant increase compared with the 249 cases reported across the United States during the same time period in 2025. As of July 8, 2026, 129 cases of cyclosporiasis had been reported in New York State outside of New York City, which is higher than the usual 20 to 55 cases typically observed by early July. To date in 2026, there are no lab-confirmed cases of cyclosporiasis in Tompkins County. For reference, in 2025, Tompkins County had one lab-confirmed case, and 4 cases were reported in 2024.
The parasite is microscopic and cannot be seen without laboratory testing. Cyclospora is spread through contaminated food or water. Direct person-to-person spread is unlikely. People who have had Cyclospora infection in the past can become infected again if they are exposed to the parasite. Previous outbreaks have been linked to fresh produce including lettuce, herbs, raspberries and snow peas.
The most common symptom of cyclosporiasis is watery diarrhea, which may last for several days to several weeks and can sometimes return after improving. Other symptoms may include:
Loss of appetite
Stomach cramps or abdominal pain
Nausea or vomiting
Weight loss
Muscle aches
Fatigue
Symptoms typically appear about one week after consuming contaminated food or water but may occur anywhere from two days to two weeks after exposure. Some people infected with Cyclospora may not experience symptoms. It is important to contact your healthcare provider if you suspect Cyclospora infection, testing and antibiotic treatment may be available. Healthcare providers can specifically request to test for cyclosporiasis.
Residents can lower their risk by following these food safety recommendations:
Wash hands with soap and water before and after preparing food.
Rinse fresh fruits, vegetables, and herbs thoroughly under running water before eating, cutting, or cooking.
Scrub firm produce, such as cucumbers and melons, with a clean produce brush.
Remove damaged or bruised areas from fruits and vegetables before eating.
Refrigerate cut, peeled, or cooked produce within two hours.
Be mindful of foods that are not peeled or washed at home, including fresh fruits, vegetables, and herbs.
For additional information about cyclosporiasis, visit the CDC website at: http://www.cdc.gov/cyclosporiasis or the NYS Department of Health Communicable Disease Branch website at: https://health.ny.gov/diseases/communicable/cyclosporiasis/index.htm.
Tompkins County Whole Health: envisioning a future where every person in Tompkins County can achieve wellness. Find us online at: https://www.tompkinscountyny.gov/health and follow us on Facebook, Instagram or X. Sign up to receive Whole Health updates or other county announcements via email or text.
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