Hawaii is now reporting cases of cyclospora as the United States experiences a surge in infections caused by this foodborne parasite. Federal officials have announced that produce recalled due to the largest outbreak is no longer available to consumers.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have updated their data, revealing 18,445 confirmed cyclosporiasis cases acquired domestically since May 1. This is a rise from last week, when there were 17,180 confirmed cases, indicating an increase of 1,265 cases. Currently, 49 states and the District of Columbia have reported confirmed cases.
Although Hawaii was previously absent from the CDC’s national map, health officials have confirmed multiple infections in the state. Newsweek attempted to reach Hawaii’s Department of Health via email for further comments.
CDC Map Updates
Michigan remains severely impacted, with confirmed cases ranging between 4,000 and 6,999. Hawaii has been added to the map, showing 1 to 49 confirmed cases. All states except Delaware have reported confirmed cyclospora cases according to CDC data. However, Delaware health officials have stated they have identified 13 probable cases, which are pending confirmation due to sequencing requirements.
Despite assurances from federal regulators about iceberg lettuce linked to a major outbreak being removed from the food supply, case numbers continue to rise. More than 11,400 illnesses linked to the lettuce have been reported as of August 27, including 495 hospitalizations and two deaths. Investigations by the CDC also point to cyclospora clusters beyond those alleged to originate from lettuce processed in Mexico, indicating that separate outbreaks without identified sources might be contributing to new case reports.
Cyclospora Details
Cyclospora cayetanensis is a parasite that causes intestinal illness known as cyclosporiasis. Typically contracted by consuming contaminated food or water, cyclospora is not spread directly from person to person since it requires environmental maturation before becoming infectious. Most U.S. cases occur between May and August. However, reporting delays can extend case detection past this official cycle.
Symptoms and Impact
The symptoms of cyclosporiasis include prolonged watery diarrhea, stomach cramps, nausea, loss of appetite, weight loss, and fatigue. Vomiting and low-grade fever may also occur. Symptoms typically begin about a week post-exposure, ranging from two days to two weeks. Without treatment, illness can persist for weeks, with potential symptom relapses.
Product Recalls
The primary outbreak this year was linked to iceberg lettuce from Taylor Farms de Mexico. Though no positive cyclospora test was associated with its products, a recall was announced on July 17. Federal authorities assure that these expired products are no longer available. Hawaii health officials emphasized that this lettuce was not distributed in their state. Investigators are analyzing Hawaii’s cases to determine connection to other outbreaks or independent sources.
Comparing Seasons
This year has seen an unprecedented number of cases. Since May 1, 18,445 confirmed cases with 990 hospitalizations and two deaths have been reported. This greatly eclipses the record of 1,180 confirmed cases from the same period in 2025. Experts believe actual figures are higher due to underdiagnosis and lack of specialized testing.
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