NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WOKI / WVLT)— Federal health officials are reporting an increase in cases of cyclosporiasis, a gastrointestinal illness caused by a parasite, and Tennessee is among the states affected by the growing number of infections.
According to a notice issued by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 145 cases of cyclosporiasis had been reported across 17 states as of June 16. Twenty people have been hospitalized as a result of the illness.
The CDC said all of those cases involved people who became sick after eating food in the United States and reported no international travel during the two weeks before symptoms began.
Patients affected by the illness have ranged in age from 5 to 86 years old.
Tennessee Included Among Affected States
Tennessee is among the 17 states where cases have been reported this year. Other affected states include New York, Illinois, Texas, Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, Virginia and Pennsylvania.
New York has reported the highest number of cases, followed by Illinois and Texas.
In addition to the domestic cases, the CDC reported another 45 infections linked to international travel, with three resulting in hospitalization.
What Is Cyclosporiasis?
Cyclosporiasis is an intestinal illness caused by the microscopic parasite Cyclospora cayetanensis.
People typically become infected after consuming food or water contaminated with fecal matter containing the parasite. Outbreaks are often associated with fresh produce and other foods that may become contaminated during growing, harvesting or processing.
The illness is most common during the spring and summer months.
Symptoms Can Last Weeks
The CDC says the most common symptom is watery diarrhea, often accompanied by frequent and sometimes severe bowel movements.
Other symptoms may include:
- Stomach cramps
- Bloating
- Nausea
- Fatigue
- Loss of appetite
- Weight loss
While the illness is generally not life-threatening, untreated infections can last for several days, weeks or even longer. Symptoms may come and go over time.
Tennessee Cases Have Increased Over Time
Although state and federal officials have not released a current Tennessee case count for 2026, historical data shows infections have become more common in recent years.
The Tennessee Department of Health reported:
- 6 cases in 2016
- Significant increases in subsequent years
- 71 reported cases in 2023, the most recent year for which statewide data was available
Health officials say the upward trend mirrors increases seen in other parts of the country.
What To Do If You Become Sick
The CDC encourages anyone experiencing symptoms consistent with cyclosporiasis to contact a healthcare provider. The illness can be diagnosed through laboratory testing and treated with prescription medications.
Most healthy individuals eventually recover, but people with weakened immune systems, underlying health conditions or other risk factors may experience more severe illness or prolonged symptoms.
Health experts also recommend thoroughly washing fresh produce, practicing good hand hygiene and following food safety guidelines to reduce the risk of foodborne illnesses.
The CDC continues to investigate reported cases and monitor the spread of the parasite nationwide.
