Hawaii joins the list of U.S. states reporting cases of Cyclospora infection, a growing concern as the country faces an unprecedented rise in infections caused by this foodborne parasite. Federal officials have stated that the produce linked to the largest outbreak is no longer available to consumers.
Current Cyclospora Statistics
Recent data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reveals 18,445 laboratory-confirmed, domestically acquired Cyclosporiasis cases since May 1. This marks an increase of 1,265 from last week’s count of 17,180 cases. Currently, 49 states and the District of Columbia have confirmed cases.
Hawaii, initially one of the few states not displayed on the CDC’s national map, has now reported multiple cases of Cyclosporiasis. The CDC’s map, updated with the latest data, shows Michigan as the most affected state, with 4,000 to 6,999 cases, and Delaware undercounts due to testing limitations.
Tracking the Outbreak
Despite assurances from federal regulators about the removal of contaminated iceberg lettuce linked to a major multistate outbreak, the number of cases continues to rise. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and CDC report that the lettuce’s shelf life has expired, suggesting supply chain removal. Nevertheless, more than 11,400 illnesses across 20 states were linked to the lettuce, alongside 495 hospitalizations and two fatalities.
The CDC is exploring multiple Cyclospora clusters beyond the notable outbreak associated with processed iceberg lettuce from central Mexico. These investigations could link newly reported cases to different sources yet untraced.
Understanding Cyclospora
Cyclospora cayetanensis is a microscopic parasite causing the illness Cyclosporiasis.
Infections occur after consuming food or water contaminated with the parasite, notably through fresh produce consumed raw. Cyclospora is not typically spread from person to person, as the parasite requires time to mature environmentally. Peak infection season in the U.S. spans from May to August; however, reporting delays can extend case reporting beyond this period.
Symptoms and Case Factors
Prolonged watery diarrhea characterizes the infection. Patients may also experience stomach cramps, bloating, nausea, appetite loss, fatigue, weight loss, and increased gas. Some cases involve vomiting or low-grade fever. Symptoms usually appear about a week post-exposure, though timing can vary. Untreated, the illness may persist and recur.
Recalls and Investigations
The largest outbreak this year links to processed lettuce from Mexico, distributed by Taylor Farms de Mexico. A recall initiated on July 17 connected multiple states’ illnesses to this product, despite no positive Cyclospora result from Taylor Farms products. Federal authorities maintain confidence that all affected products are off the market. Hawaii officials noted no lettuce distribution in the state linked to the recalled products, suggesting ongoing investigation into local case sources or separate outbreaks.
Comparison to Previous Years
This year’s outbreak far exceeds previous seasons. Since May 1, the CDC documented 18,445 confirmed cases, 990 hospitalizations, and two deaths. This compares to 1,180 cases during the same 2025 period. Experts acknowledge underestimation, as many recover without diagnosis. As the 2026 season wraps, case numbers will grow with backlog processing and ongoing investigations.