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Parasite Surge in Fruits & Vegetables

By on July 14, 2026

Cyclosporiasis is an intestinal illness caused by the microscopic parasite Cyclospora cayetanensis. Health officials across the United States are investigating a surge in cases during the summer of 2026. While California has reported cases, officials have not identified a single fruit or vegetable responsible for all illnesses, and there is currently no statewide recommendation to avoid all bagged or pre-cut produce. Investigators are still working to determine the exact source or sources of contamination.

Although California has reported only a small number of cases, the parasite has been identified in more than 30 states. Health officials recommend washing all fresh produce thoroughly, staying informed about recalls, and considering locally grown produce from certified California farmers markets and farms whenever possible.

As of July 14, 2026, the CDC says the current cyclospora (cyclosporiasis) outbreak has spread to at least 34 states, with more than 1,600 laboratory-confirmed cases and thousands of additional suspected cases still under investigation. Health officials expect those numbers to continue rising as more reports are processed.

States reporting the largest number of cases include:

  • Michigan (by far the most cases)
  • Ohio
  • New York
  • Kentucky
  • West Virginia
  • California (currently reporting a small number of confirmed cases)
  • Florida
  • Georgia
  • Illinois
  • Indiana
  • Pennsylvania
  • Virginia

In total, 34 states have reported confirmed cases, although many states have only a handful of infections.

California’s Situation

California has reported only a small number of confirmed cases (between 1 and 10) so far, according to current public health data. Officials emphasize that California is not considered one of the outbreak hotspots, but residents should still practice safe food handling because contaminated produce is distributed nationwide.

Where the Outbreak Is Most Severe

The outbreak is currently centered in the Midwest:

  1. Michigan – more than 3,300 reported illnesses
  2. Ohio – hundreds of cases
  3. New York – hundreds of cases

These three states account for a large share of reported illnesses, although infections have now been identified across much of the country.

What Produce Is Being Investigated?

Investigators are examining several types of fresh produce, including:

  • Lettuce
  • Bagged salad mixes
  • Leafy greens
  • Fresh herbs (such as cilantro and basil)
  • Berries

Symptoms of Cyclosporiasis

Symptoms usually appear 2 days to 2 weeks after eating contaminated food or drinking contaminated water and may include:

  • Severe watery diarrhea
  • Stomach cramping
  • Bloating
  • Fatigue
  • Loss of appetite
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Low-grade fever
  • Weight loss (in prolonged cases)

Without treatment, symptoms can last for several weeks or even come and go over a month or longer.

How to Reduce Your Risk

Health experts recommend the following precautions:

  • Wash all fresh fruits and vegetables thoroughly under running water.
  • Scrub firm produce such as melons, cucumbers, and potatoes with a clean produce brush.
  • Wash your hands before and after handling fresh produce.
  • Keep washed produce separate from raw meat and poultry.
  • Refrigerate cut fruits and vegetables promptly.
  • Cook vegetables when possible, especially if you are at higher risk of severe illness.
  • If you develop persistent diarrhea lasting more than a few days, contact your healthcare provider, as cyclosporiasis can be treated with antibiotics.

Should You Avoid Pre-Cut or Bagged Produce?

Some physicians and food safety experts have suggested choosing whole produce instead of pre-cut or bagged items until more is known about the current outbreak because additional processing can increase opportunities for contamination. However, California health officials have not issued a blanket recommendation telling consumers to avoid all pre-cut or bagged fruits and vegetables. The advice remains to follow safe food-handling practices and pay attention to any future recall announcements.

Buying Local Can Be a Good Option

One practical way to reduce risk and support California agriculture is to purchase produce from:

  • Certified California farmers markets
  • Local family farms
  • Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) programs
  • Farm stands

Buying locally can offer several benefits:

  • Shorter time from harvest to your table.
  • Greater opportunity to ask growers about their farming and food safety practices.
  • Supports California farmers and local communities.
  • Fresher seasonal produce.

Even when buying locally, it’s still important to wash produce thoroughly before eating. The California Department of Public Health recommends purchasing produce from reputable sources, including certified farmers markets, while continuing to follow safe handling practices.

Produce Commonly Linked to Past Cyclospora Outbreaks

Previous outbreaks have been associated with:

  • Bagged salad mixes
  • Leafy greens
  • Fresh basil
  • Cilantro
  • Raspberries
  • Snow peas
  • Mesclun lettuce

These foods have been linked in past outbreaks and should not be assumed to be the source of the current outbreak unless public health officials identify them through an investigation.

Bottom Line

There is no recommendation to stop eating fresh fruits and vegetables. Instead:

  • ✔ Wash produce thoroughly.
  • ✔ Consider buying whole produce rather than pre-cut products if you prefer an extra precaution.
  • ✔ Support local California farms and certified farmers markets.
  • ✔ Stay informed about any FDA or CDC recalls.
  • ✔ Seek medical care if you experience severe or persistent diarrhea.

This balanced approach allows you to continue enjoying fresh produce while reducing your risk during the current investigation.

 

 

 

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