Cyclosporiasis

Clear→ stable

Gastrointestinal

Current NYS Status

691 cases in 2024 — near the 5-year baseline of ~1,120.

2024 statewide cases: 691

Source: NYSDOH Annual Communicable Disease Report 2024 + 5-yr baseline

What is it?

Cyclosporiasis is caused by the Cyclospora cayetanensis parasite. NYS had 691 cases in 2024. Cases frequently occur in clusters linked to contaminated imported fresh produce — raspberries, cilantro, basil, snow peas, and other herbs and vegetables from endemic regions in Central and South America have been implicated in past outbreaks. Dutchess County had an unusually high cluster in 2024.

How it spreads

Spreads by swallowing food or water contaminated with Cyclospora oocysts. Not spread directly from person-to-person. Unlike most parasites, Cyclospora oocysts need days to weeks outside the body to become infectious, so fresh fecal contamination is not immediately infectious.

Symptoms

Watery diarrhea (often explosive), loss of appetite, weight loss, bloating, stomach cramps, nausea, vomiting, fatigue, and low-grade fever beginning about a week after exposure. Without treatment, illness can last from a few days to months and may relapse.

Who is at risk?

People who eat imported fresh produce. Travelers to developing countries. Immunocompromised individuals may develop more severe and prolonged illness.

What you can do

🛡Wash all fresh produce thoroughly under running water before eating, even if prewashed

⚕️See a provider for prolonged watery diarrhea, especially in summer months — trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole is effective

⚕️Stay hydrated during illness; oral rehydration solutions help

Tier B — Annual report tracking

Based on NYSDOH annual communicable disease report. Threat level reflects 2024 case counts compared to the 5-year baseline.

Seasonality: summer

This information is for general public health awareness and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.