Cyclosporiasis in Utah: What You Need to Know

Key Takeaways:

• Cyclospora is a microscopic parasite that causes an intestinal illness known as cyclosporiasis.
• Contaminated food and water are the primary sources of infection.
• The most common symptom is frequent, watery diarrhea.
• Cyclosporiasis is not transmitted person-to-person.
• An outbreak of cyclosporiasis has been linked to Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Ohio, and West Virginia.
• Utah is not currently affected by the multistate outbreak.
• Some people in Utah have recently been diagnosed with cyclosporiasis, but that is a normal occurrence for this time of year and not tied to the outbreak.
• A lab test is the only way to confirm if you have cyclosporiasis.
• Cyclosporiasis is treatable with an antibiotic.

What is cyclosporiasis?

Cyclosporiasis has been in the news a lot lately, with a multistate outbreak confirmed in at least 4 U.S. states including Michigan, Ohio, West Virginia, and Kentucky. The FDA is investigating the cause, focusing on shredded iceberg lettuce sold/served in those states.

Cyclospora is the name of the microscopic, foodborne parasite itself, while cyclosporiasis refers to the intestinal illness or infection caused by the parasite.

Unlike many other causes of food poisoning, Cyclospora doesn’t typically spread directly from one person to another. The parasite needs time outside the body to become infectious, making contaminated food and water the primary sources of infection.

What are the symptoms of cyclosporiasis?

Symptoms usually develop about one week after exposure, although they can appear anywhere from two days to two weeks later.

Common symptoms include:

• Frequent watery diarrhea
• Loss of appetite
• Weight loss
• Stomach cramps or bloating
• Nausea
• Fatigue
• Low-grade fever
• Muscle aches

One characteristic feature of cyclosporiasis is that symptoms often come and go. Many people begin to feel better only to have diarrhea return days or even weeks later if the infection isn’t treated.

Without treatment, illness can last several weeks or even more than a month.

Is there a cyclosporiasis outbreak in Utah?

A statement released by the Utah Department of Health and Human Services on July 15, 2026, indicated that there have not been any Cyclosporiasis infections identified in Utah related to the outbreak that is occurring in other parts of the country.

It acknowledges that there have been identified cases in Utah, but those cases are considered “normal” for this time of year and have not been linked to the national outbreak.

How can I protect against cyclosporiasis?

According to the CDC, recommendations for the public include:

• Visit a clinician if you have prolonged or watery diarrhea, especially if it lasts more than a few days.
• Reduce your risk by thoroughly washing fresh produce under clean running water before eating and by following safe food handling.
• Be aware that chemically disinfecting or sanitizing produce might not fully eliminate Cyclospora. It is important to thoroughly wash produce even if it is labeled as pre-washed.

Other tips include:

• Refrigerate perishable foods promptly.
• Drink safe, treated water when traveling internationally.
• Stay informed about food recalls involving fresh produce.

Why is cyclosporiasis more common in the summer?

Cases of cyclosporiasis tend to increase between May and August, when fresh produce consumption is at its highest and imported fruits and vegetables are more common. Previous outbreaks have been linked to foods such as:

• Bagged salad mixes
• Cilantro
• Basil
• Fresh raspberries
• Snow peas
• Fresh herbs

How is cyclosporiasis diagnosed?

Because the symptoms resemble many other stomach illnesses, cyclosporiasis cannot be diagnosed based on symptoms alone.

Your healthcare provider may order a stool test specifically designed to detect Cyclospora. Standard stool cultures used for bacterial infections do not always identify this parasite, so it’s important to let your provider know if you’ve recently traveled or eaten fresh produce before becoming ill.

How is cyclosporiasis treated?

The good news is that cyclosporiasis is treatable.

Most people recover with a prescription antibiotic called trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (TMP-SMX). Your healthcare provider will determine whether this medication is appropriate for you based on your medical history and any medication allergies.

Staying hydrated is also essential, especially if diarrhea is frequent.

People who cannot take sulfa antibiotics should discuss alternative management options with their healthcare provider, although effective alternatives are more limited.

When should you see a healthcare provider?

Many stomach illnesses improve within a few days. However, you should schedule an appointment if you experience:

• Diarrhea lasting longer than two to three days
• Severe dehydration
• Bloody stools
• High fever
• Severe abdominal pain
• Symptoms that improve but repeatedly return
• Persistent diarrhea after international travel

Prompt diagnosis and treatment can help shorten the illness and prevent complications.

The Bottom Line

There is currently no increased risk of cyclosporiasis in Utah; any new cases are not tied to the national outbreak. Continue to practice good food safety, stay informed about recalls, and seek medical care for prolonged diarrhea to help you protect your health.

If you or a family member develops persistent diarrhea or other concerning digestive symptoms, a primary care provider or urgent care clinician at Revere Health can help determine the cause and recommend the appropriate treatment.