NY Cyclosporiasis Cases Surge Past 1,000: What You Need to Know Now

New York State is grappling with a significant spike in cyclosporiasis cases, with the New York State Department of Health reporting 22 new confirmed infections between September 8 and September 14. This latest update brings the total number of cases reported since May 1 to 1,064, while the year-to-date count stands at 1,098.

A Sharp Increase in Infections

Health officials note that this surge is substantial. Typically, New York reports between 500 and 700 cyclosporiasis cases annually. However, the current 2026 totals have already surpassed 1,000 cases, effectively doubling the numbers seen in both 2024 and 2025. The increase of 231 cases since early August highlights an ongoing public health concern as the season winds down.

National Context

The trend mirrors a broader national issue. As of September 15, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recorded 19,883 laboratory-confirmed cases across the United States for the 2026 season (May 1 – Aug 31). The CDC has indicated that recent infection rates have "significantly declined," marking their final weekly tracking update for the season, though periodic surveillance will continue.

How to Protect Yourself

To reduce your risk of contracting cyclosporiasis, a parasitic illness often linked to contaminated fresh produce, health officials recommend strict hygiene practices:

• Wash Hands: Always wash hands before and after handling fruits and vegetables.
• Sanitize Surfaces: Clean and sanitize cutting boards, knives, and preparation areas thoroughly.
• Scrub Firm Produce: Use a clean produce brush on firm items like melons and cucumbers.
• Inspect Produce: Remove any bruised or damaged areas from fruits and vegetables.
• Rinse Thoroughly: Rinse all fresh produce under running water before consumption.
• Refrigerate Promptly: Store cut, peeled, or cooked produce in the refrigerator immediately.
• Cook When Possible: Heat can kill the parasite, so cooking food is an effective preventive measure.

When to Seek Medical Care

While cyclosporiasis is rarely life-threatening, it can cause severe diarrhea leading to dehydration, particularly in older adults, young children, and those with weakened immune systems. If you experience persistent diarrhea, signs of dehydration, severe abdominal pain, or symptoms lasting more than a few days, contact a healthcare provider immediately.