The Texas Department of State Health Services confirmed that the cyclospora season is drawing to a close. While some recent Texas cases have been tied to the multistate lettuce outbreak, the bulk of infections occurred from late June to mid‑July, and the parasite’s typical season runs from early May through the end of August.
Seasonal trends and recent numbers
Historically, 97% of Texas cyclosporiasis cases happen during the May‑August window. This year, the state has logged 625 cases, up 67 from the prior week, with 77 hospitalizations. Most of those cases are now behind us, and health officials expect only occasional reports into September.
Link to the national lettuce outbreak
As of August 31, 20 Texas cases were linked to the multistate outbreak traced to contaminated iceberg lettuce from Taylor Farms de Mexico. The outbreak has affected 20 states, bringing cyclospora to national headlines. Michigan remains the hardest‑hit state, reporting more than 14,500 cases, 356 hospitalizations and two deaths.
What residents should know
Health officials advise Texans to continue practicing safe food handling, especially with fresh produce. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention notes that it can take up to six weeks for case reports to be processed, so a few isolated cases may still appear.
Most years, Texas sees only 10 to 20 off‑season cases, underscoring that the parasite’s activity is largely seasonal. Residents can stay informed through the Texas Department of State Health Services website and local health department alerts.
Original reporting: Texarkana Gazette — read the source article.
