Cyclosporiasis Outbreak Surpasses 560 Cases in North Carolina
Hospitalizations climbed to 16 as state health officials investigate produce-linked infections and say no single source has been confirmed.
- The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services reported 561 cyclosporiasis cases statewide as of July 20, 2026, with Wake County accounting for 350 of those illnesses.
- Health officials say the cause of the state's growing outbreak remains a mystery, though they suspect multiple sources may be responsible as cyclosporiasis typically intensifies during summer months.
- Sixteen people have been hospitalized due to the parasite, which causes intense stomach cramps and watery, "explosive" diarrhea; officials advise those with persistent symptoms to contact their health care provider.
- Buncombe County Public Health officials urge residents to thoroughly wash or cook fresh produce, with cooking to 165 degrees Fahrenheit identified as the most effective prevention method.
- This North Carolina surge mirrors a nationwide outbreak of the intestinal illness, while Durham Public Schools opted to serve frozen or canned vegetables until September as state officials have not issued formal guidance.
22 Articles
22 Articles
Parsley and cilantro added to the list now linked to cyclospora outbreak in North Carolina
Health officials in North Carolina have tied contaminated parsley and cilantro to the state’s rapidly growing cyclospora outbreak, marking the first public acknowledgment of produce beyond iceberg lettuce as a potential source of the illness both in the state and across the country. According to a report from the New York Post, state authorities emphasized […]
Parsley, Cilantro May Be Behind Some Cyclosporiasis Cases: North Carolina Officials
People sickened by a parasite have repeatedly told investigators they ate cilantro or parsley before becoming sick, according to North Carolina officials. Parsley and cilantro “keeps showing up repeatedly” while state officials carry out interviews with people who contracted cyclosporiasis, a disease caused by a parasite present in food and water with feces, Carl Williams, the state public health veterinarian, told reporters during a briefing on…
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