MARYLAND — Maryland has recorded 110 confirmed cases of cyclosporiasis so far in 2026 as state and federal health officials investigate a nationwide increase in intestinal illness.
According to a recent article by Maryland Matters, Maryland’s case count reached 110 as of Tuesday, July 21. That represents an increase of 41 cases, or nearly 60%, from the 69 reported one week earlier.
The Maryland Department of Health reported that 106 of the state’s cases occurred between May 1 and July 21, during the time of year when infections are most commonly detected in the United States.
According to WBAL-TV 11 News, state health officials said 27 cases were acquired domestically, 47 were associated with international travel, and 36 remained under investigation to determine where the infections originated.
Maryland health officials have not identified a common connection among the cases reported in the state.
What Is Cyclosporiasis?
Cyclosporiasis is an intestinal infection caused by the microscopic parasite Cyclospora cayetanensis.
According to the Maryland Department of Health’s cyclosporiasis fact sheet, people can become infected by consuming food or water contaminated with feces containing the parasite.
Cases are most frequently detected during the spring and summer. People of any age can become infected, and although those living in or traveling to developing countries may face an increased risk, the infection can be acquired worldwide.
The illness is unlikely to spread directly from one person to another because Cyclospora must remain outside the body for days or weeks before it becomes infectious.
Cases Rising Across The Country
Maryland’s increase comes amid a significant rise in cases across the United States.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 4,173 laboratory-confirmed, domestically acquired cases were reported in 41 states between May 1 and July 20. At least 308 people were hospitalized, and no deaths were reported.
The CDC was also aware of more than 7,400 additional cases that had not yet been laboratory confirmed and required further investigation.
Federal officials said the actual number of illnesses is likely higher because some people recover without seeking medical care or being tested. Reporting delays also mean case totals are expected to continue increasing.
The CDC, U.S. Food and Drug Administration, and state and local health departments are investigating multiple clusters of infections.
One multistate outbreak affecting five states has been linked to iceberg lettuce through epidemiological and food traceback evidence, according to the CDC’s July 2026 outbreak investigation.
The key points of the investigation were:
- CDC, FDA, and public health officials in several states are investigating a multistate outbreak of Cyclospora infections linked to iceberg lettuce in 5 states.
- Do not eat recalled iceberg lettuce from Taylor Farms de Mexico that might be purchased from retail stores or served in restaurants. If you purchased recalled lettuce, throw it out or return it to the store. If you don’t know the source of the lettuce, ask the restaurant.
- CDC is also investigating other outbreaks and illnesses of cyclosporiasis nationally that are unrelated to this outbreak.
However, Maryland health officials have not announced a connection between the state’s cases and that outbreak.
Read Taylor Fresh Foods Statement Regarding Cyclospora Outbreak here.
Symptoms To Watch For
The most common symptom of cyclosporiasis is watery diarrhea, which may be frequent or severe.
Other symptoms can include:
- Extreme fatigue
- Loss of appetite
- Weight loss
- Increased gas and bloating
- Stomach cramps
- Nausea or vomiting
- Low-grade fever
According to the Maryland Department of Health, symptoms generally appear one to 14 days after a person consumes contaminated food or water. Symptoms most commonly begin about one week after exposure.
Without treatment, symptoms may last from several days to a month or longer. They may also disappear and later return. Some infected people may not experience symptoms.
People experiencing prolonged or severe diarrhea should contact a health care provider. Because laboratories do not always routinely screen stool samples for Cyclospora, a provider may need to specifically request the test.
Cyclosporiasis can be treated with antibiotics. People with weakened immune systems may require longer treatment or higher doses.
How To Reduce The Risk
The Maryland Department of Health recommends washing fruits and vegetables before eating them, washing hands before handling food, and avoiding untreated water from lakes, streams or springs.
The department also recommends cooking food to an internal temperature of at least 158 degrees.
The CDC advises consumers to thoroughly wash fresh produce under clean running water before eating it, including produce labeled as prewashed. However, washing produce may reduce the risk of exposure but may not completely eliminate Cyclospora.
Residents should continue monitoring food recalls and public health advisories while state and federal investigations remain underway.
Watch below on this episode of “The Takeaway with Alex”, food safety expert Brian Schaneberg shares what we know about the outbreak and what he thinks is safer to eat. As Executive Director of the Illinois Institute of Technology’s Institute for Food Safety and Health, Schaneberg talks about his hypothesis for the source, how the FDA tracks down the cause and what steps everyone can take to eat their vegetables and still stay safe.
“Is lettuce safe yet? Everything to know about outbreak of ‘diarrhea parasite’ cyclospora | S2:E2” | Video by: NBC Chicago
Related Articles
- FDA Links Diarrhea Parasite Outbreak To Lettuce From Taco Bell
- 32 Cyclosporiasis Cases Confirmed In Maryland As Infections Rise Over Recent Years
Got a tip or photo? Text us at 888-871-NEWS (6397) or email news@thebaynet.com.
Join The BayNet Membership for exclusive perks and zero ads.
Don’t miss a story—sign up for our newsletter!
