Cyclosporiasis

Cyclosporiasis is an intestinal illness caused by the microscopic parasite Cyclospora cayetanensis. It primarily affects humans, causing prolonged watery diarrhea, and is most often linked to consuming contaminated fresh produce or water. While found globally, outbreaks have been common in developed countries due to imported produce.

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Recent Cases (30d)
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Active Outbreaks
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What is Cyclosporiasis?

The parasite *Cyclospora cayetanensis* was first observed in stools in 1979 but was recognized as a significant human pathogen in the early 1990s. Its historical significance grew due to large foodborne and waterborne outbreaks, particularly in North America, often linked to contaminated fresh produce. This led to increased public health awareness and research into its epidemiology.

Symptoms

  • Sudden, explosive, watery diarrhea (can be prolonged or relapsing)
  • Loss of appetite and weight loss
  • Abdominal cramps, bloating, and increased gas
  • Nausea and fatigue
  • Less common: Vomiting, low-grade fever, muscle aches

Transmission

Cyclosporiasis is transmitted through the fecal-oral route, primarily by ingesting food or water contaminated with mature *Cyclospora cayetanensis* oocysts. Direct person-to-person transmission is unlikely because the oocysts passed in stool are not immediately infectious; they require days to weeks to sporulate (mature) in the environment. Outbreaks are frequently associated with contaminated fresh produce such as raspberries, basil, or leafy greens.

Contagious Period: Varies by disease

Prevention

  • Thoroughly wash all fresh fruits and vegetables, especially berries, lettuce, and herbs, before consumption.
  • Avoid drinking untreated water from lakes, streams, or unverified sources.
  • Practice good hand hygiene, particularly after using the restroom and before handling food.
  • When traveling to areas where Cyclosporiasis is common, avoid raw produce and opt for cooked foods.

Active Outbreaks & Recent Cases

Real-time intelligence from global health monitoring and AI-powered surveillance

Data sources: BEACON, ProMED, WHO, CDC, and 50+ national health agencies

No Active Outbreaks Detected

Our AI-powered surveillance hasn't detected significant Cyclosporiasis activity in the past 30 days.

Real-time monitoring continues 24/7 across BEACON, ProMED, WHO, CDC, and 50+ global health agencies

What This Means

Currently, Cyclosporiasis case counts are within baseline expectations globally. However, diseases can emerge rapidly, which is why continuous monitoring is critical.

Stay Prepared

Download the Virus Watcher app to get instant alerts if Cyclosporiasis activity increases in your region or travel destinations.

Prevention Remains Important

Even without active outbreaks, understanding Cyclosporiasis prevention helps protect you and your community:

  • Thoroughly wash all fresh fruits and vegetables, especially berries, lettuce, and herbs, before consumption.
  • Avoid drinking untreated water from lakes, streams, or unverified sources.
  • Practice good hand hygiene, particularly after using the restroom and before handling food.
  • When traveling to areas where Cyclosporiasis is common, avoid raw produce and opt for cooked foods.
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Expert Resources & References

Trusted information from leading health organizations

CDC

Official guidance from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

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WHO

Global disease surveillance and guidelines from the World Health Organization

View WHO Resources →

Research

Latest peer-reviewed research and clinical studies

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Medically Reviewed Content

Disease information on Virus Watcher is reviewed by our Chief Epidemiologist, a former CDC lead analyst for FluSight forecasting. Outbreak data is aggregated from verified sources including BEACON, ProMED, WHO, CDC, and 50+ national health agencies. This information is for educational purposes and should not replace professional medical advice.

Last reviewed: 2026-06-03

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