SARASOTA, Fla. (WWSB) – A handful of cyclosporiasis cases have been confirmed in Lee and Hillsborough counties as the parasitic illness spreads across at least 17 states, according to Dr. Ron Andari, a gastroenterologist with Lakewood Ranch Medical Center. No cases have been reported in Manatee or Sarasota counties.
Andari said the illness is transmitted through uncooked foods — specifically raw vegetables, green leafy vegetables, garnishing herbs, and berries.
Nationally, at least one state has reported more than 700 cases of gastrointestinal illness linked to the parasite — a count that quadrupled from roughly 170 in less than a week. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said several hundred cases have been reported since May 1, but the actual number is likely higher. At least 20 people have been hospitalized. Health officials said there is currently no evidence of a single outbreak linking all the cases.
A state is now reporting 700+ cases of ‘explosive’ diarrhea linked to parasite. Here’s what we know
Cyclosporiasis is caused by a single-cell parasite that infects fresh produce through contaminated water. The parasite multiplies when water is sprayed on plants in humid farm conditions.
“This is a parasitic infection. It’s a food-borne illness,” Andari said. “It’s transmitted by uncooked foods, specifically raw vegetables and fruits.”
Andari said the primary symptom is diarrhea, which he described as explosive, along with loose stools, increased volume, abdominal cramps, and nausea.
He said patients experiencing severe or persistent diarrhea should contact their primary care physician or gastroenterologist. Anyone with concerns about dehydration should go to the emergency room.
“If it’s a lot of diarrhea, they absolutely need to go to the ER, if there’s any concerns for dehydration,” Andari said.
Andari said the illness is 100% treatable and may require antibiotics, making prompt diagnosis important. Stool testing is typically used to confirm the infection.
He said prevention starts with thoroughly washing fruits and vegetables with an extensive amount of water, washing hands, and cleaning cutting boards and food preparation surfaces.
“Early diagnosis so we can prevent problems in the future” is paramount, Andari said.
For more information, visit the CDC website.
Copyright 2026 WWSB. All rights reserved.