TYLER, Texas (KLTV) – U.S. health officials are tracking a seasonal spike in cases of cyclosporiasis, an intestinal illness that can cause “explosive” diarrhea, among other symptoms.
The spike in cases occurs when people eat contaminated food or drink contaminated water. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) says no one fully knows how the cyclospora parasite gets into food and water, and that people should take care to follow safe food handling practices to avoid contamination.
Case counts rise during the spring and summer months; therefore, the cyclosporiasis season is considered May 1 through August 31.
Cases have been reported in 17 states in the past six weeks, including in Texas, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Agencies are working to determine whether the cases are tied to a common food source among the 145 cases reported from May 1 through June 16, 2026. 20 of those people were hospitalized from the illness.
This map shows where the 145 people with cyclosporiasis acquired in the United States since May 1, 2026, lived.
Cyclosporiasis cases may not be limited to these states with known cases, the CDC says. The true number of people sick with cyclosporiasis was likely higher than the number reported. This is because some people recover without medical care and are not tested for Cyclospora.
Cyclospora cases in the U.S.(Centers for Disease Control)
Important things to know, according to the CDC:
Cyclosporiasis symptoms usually begin about one week after becoming infected.Symptoms of cyclosporiasis may includeWatery diarrhea (most common)Loss of appetiteWeight lossCrampingBloatingIncreased gasNauseaFatigue
Without treatment, symptoms can last anywhere from a few days to a month or longer. Some symptoms, such as diarrhea, may go away and then return. Other symptoms, such as fatigue, may continue after the gastrointestinal symptoms have stopped.
See a healthcare provider if you are experiencing symptoms of cyclosporiasis.
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