Parasite causing diarrhea, illness for thousands has spread to KY. What we know

Kentucky has seen a rise in cyclospora, a parasite often linked to ingesting contaminated produce that causes gastrointestinal disease.

Between 31 and 80 cases in Kentucky have been reported to the Center for Disease Control as of July 10.

What is cyclospora?

Cyclospora is a parasite that causes cyclosporiasis, an intestinal illness, in the infected person, according to the CDC. The parasite can be found in contaminated food or water, but in the United States, it is typically found on fresh produce.

The parasite matures outside the human body making transmission from person to person highly unlikely. Further, when passed in stool, the parasite is still not infectious until it matures in “favorable environmental conditions” for one to two weeks.

Cyclospora are most seen during the warmer months making their “season” May 1 through August 31.

How can you know where it starts?

According to the Washington Post, the parasite is one of the most difficult foodborne pathogens to trace to its source due to the lag between ingesting the parasite and symptoms appearing.

Symptoms of cyclosporiasis, which infects the small intestine, do not begin until a few days to a week after infection, the CDC said.

However, symptoms can start anywhere from two days after infection up to two weeks.

There has been no confirmed link between what food is causing the cyclospora outbreak.

Cyclosporiasis in the US: By the numbers

Since May 1, the CDC received 843 reports of confirmed cyclosporiasis cases nationwide and 86 hospitalizations as of July 9.

At least one case has been reported in 31 states. There have been no deaths reported as a result of cyclosporiasis.

The CDC said multiple states have reported cases at a higher rate in the last two weeks than during the same time period in 2025.

The Washington Post reported that cases are likely undercounted, according to health officials, because some people who are sick do not seek medical care, nor do they get tested for the parasite.

Symptoms of cyclosporiasis

Most frequently observed symptoms of a cyclospora infection are “watery” diarrhea with frequent and “sometimes explosive” bowel movement.” However, symptoms can vary depending on the infected person and their medical history.

Other common symptoms include the following, according to Kentucky Public Health:

• Bloating
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Fever
• Abdominal cramping
• Headache

Treatment consists of antibiotics, according to the Kentucky Public Health, and individuals with diarrhea should drink lots of water and rest.

Prevention

Even though there is no confirmed food that is carrying cyclospora as of July 10, there are steps for prevention that can be taken.

The CDC advised everyone handling or preparing raw fruits and vegetables to wash their hands with soap and water before doing so.

When it comes to actually handing and preparing the produce, it is advised to wash all fruits and vegetables “thoroughly” under running water before cutting, eating or cooking.

Firm fruits and vegetables, such as melons or cucumbers, should be scrubbed with a clean produce brush.

Produce with the “prewashed” label do not need to be washed again before cutting, eating or cooking, the CDC said.

Any bruised or damaged areas of the produce should be cut away and discarded before preparing.

All produce should be refrigerated within two hours of being cut, peeled or cooked.

If you believe you have been exposed to or contracted cyclospora, Kentucky Public Health and the CDC advise you contact your primary care provider immediately.