Nearly 400 New Yorkers have been infected with cyclosporiasis, a parasite that causes explosive diarrhea, amid an outbreak that spans 17 states across the country, according to state health officials.
Of the almost 400 cases of cyclosporiasis, the New York State Department of Health said Thursday that 273 were in New York City, with the remaining cases spread across the rest of the state.
The generally non-fatal, microscopic parasite called Cyclospora cayetanensis is transmitted via food or water that has been contaminated with infected fecal matter. The bug causes prolonged, intense, watery stool, stomach cramps, muscle aches and nausea.
While not lethal, the parasite can cause diarrhea for a month or longer in those infected. The current outbreak has sent over 80 people to the hospital this year, according to preliminary data from the Centers for Disease Control.
State health officials warn that some foods have been linked to the parasite including cilantro, salad mix, basil, snow peas, and raspberries.Photo via Getty Images
Cases of cyclosporiasis tend to rise in the spring and summer months, according to the CDC, because the parasite thrives in heat. However, the number of cases in 2026 has far exceeded those in the previous year, giving health officials cause for concern.
The center of the outbreak is in Michigan, with more than 1,000 cases. More than 25 states have active health department investigations into the outbreak.
Officials struggle to identify the source of the outbreak as the parasite has not yet been reproduced in a lab. State health officials warn that some foods have been linked to the parasite including cilantro, salad mix, basil, snow peas, and raspberries.
This link has prompted some Taco Bell locations in Michigan to pull the suspect ingredients, according to Michigan news outlet, WWJ.
Signs outside the locations read, “We are currently unable to sell Lettuce, Cilantro Onion, Pico de Gallo, and Guacamole due to a nationwide recall. We apologize for the inconvenience. Any items ordered that normally come with these items WILL NOT contain them.”
It’s unclear whether protective measures in New York will rise to this level. Health officials say that consumers can take measures to prevent exposure.
They suggest thoroughly washing all produce, purchasing whole heads of lettuce over bagged, prewashed mixes, and avoiding foods that are commonly contaminated. Officials noted that vegetables should be cooked whenever possible, as the parasite is killed at 158° F.
If you exhibit symptoms of potential cyclosporiasis infection, such as diarrhea that has not resolved itself within a few days, seek medical attention.