HUDSON VALLEY- Although hundreds of cyclosporiasis cases, which can cause severe diarrhea, have recently been reported in the New York City metropolitan area, the Hudson Valley has not seen the sharp increase affecting the Big Apple.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) said Friday that nearly 400 cases have been reported, with roughly two-thirds of those affecting the five boroughs.
Since May 1, the CDC has confirmed 843 domestic cyclosporiasis cases statewide, with another 1,500 cases still under review.
More than 30 states recorded illness claims. The CDC said it saw an increase in cases over the past couple of weeks compared to the same period in 2025.
In Putnam County, Public Health Nurse Supervisor Jean Ralston told Mid-Hudson News: “The Putnam County Department of Health has had three confirmed cases of cyclosporiasis so far this year, with a potential fourth one currently under investigation. These numbers are not unusual and are similar to previous years, which show cases typically occur in June, July, and August.”
Ralston said the health department recorded six cases last year, all during those three months. “At this point, we are not seeing anything out of the ordinary,” she added.
Ralston had general summertime advice for residents.
Safe food handling is always important as several illnesses can occur with contaminated food and water.
“To protect yourself from any foodborne illness, it is important to wash your hands, and all produce carefully under running water. This applies before cutting, cooking and eating them and applies to all herbs, fruits, and vegetables. With firm fruits and vegetables such as melons and cucumbers, be sure to scrub them with a clean produce brush before slicing. Cut away any damaged or bruised areas before preparing and refrigerate cut, peeled, or cooked items as soon as possible, or at least within two hours. Eating local produce is another way to protect yourself. When traveling to an area with poor sanitary conditions, drink from safe, sealed water bottles or boil tap water,” said Ralston.