A mysterious parasite is leaving Americans battling ‘explosive diarrhea’ as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) investigates the source of the outbreak. The CDC has confirmed 145 cases of cyclosporiasis across 17 states as of mid-June 2026, all linked to infections acquired in the US.
What is Cyclosporiasis?
Cyclosporiasis is an infection caused by the microscopic parasite Cyclospora. The hallmark symptom of the infection is watery, often ‘explosive’ diarrhea that can last for weeks or even months if left untreated. Other symptoms include severe abdominal cramping, bloating, nausea, fatigue, and significant weight loss.
The official outbreak season for the parasite runs from May 1 through August 31, a window where warmer temperatures historically coincide with a spike in infections, according to the CDC. Cases have cropped up in states ranging from Texas to Alaska, with New York being hit the hardest so far, reporting between 31 and 80 cases.
The CDC, alongside the Food and Drug Administration and state health officials, is actively investigating several multi-state clusters, but they have yet to find a cause behind the spread. The CDC advises anyone experiencing symptoms of cyclosporiasis to contact a healthcare provider for testing and treatment.
Original reporting: Fox News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
