Cyclosporiasis Cases Spike in Maryland: What You Need to Know

Public health officials in Maryland have issued an alert following a notable increase in cases of cyclosporiasis, a parasitic illness that has affected dozens of residents across the state since May 1. The Maryland Department of Health is currently monitoring the situation as investigation teams work to identify the specific sources of the outbreak.

Cyclosporiasis is an intestinal infection caused by the microscopic parasite Cyclospora cayetanensis. The illness is typically contracted by consuming food or water contaminated with the parasite. Unlike many other foodborne pathogens that are associated with undercooked meats, Cyclospora is most frequently linked to fresh produce. Historically, outbreaks have been traced back to imported leafy greens, fresh herbs like cilantro and basil, berries, and snow peas.

According to medical experts, the symptoms of cyclosporiasis can be uncomfortable and disruptive. The most common sign of the infection is watery diarrhea, which is often accompanied by a loss of appetite, weight loss, stomach cramps, bloating, increased gas, nausea, and fatigue. Some individuals may also experience low-grade fevers or body aches. Symptoms usually appear about a week after exposure, but they can sometimes take up to two weeks to develop. While the illness is rarely life-threatening for healthy individuals, it can lead to severe dehydration if not properly managed, particularly in vulnerable populations such as the elderly, young children, or those with compromised immune systems.

Health authorities emphasize that cyclosporiasis does not spread directly from person to person. Because the parasite needs time to become infectious after being shed in a bowel movement, the risk of transmission through close contact is extremely low. Instead, the focus remains on food safety and hygiene practices during the processing and preparation of fresh produce.

As the investigation in Maryland continues, health departments are working to determine if the cases are linked to a specific retail product or a restaurant supplier. In the meantime, officials are urging the public to practice diligent food safety habits. This includes washing fresh fruits and vegetables thoroughly under running water, which can help remove some, though not all, of the parasites if they are present on the surface. Additionally, maintaining good hand hygiene—especially after using the restroom and before preparing or eating food—remains a foundational step in preventing the spread of various foodborne illnesses.

There is no specific vaccine to prevent cyclosporiasis. Treatment generally involves a course of prescription antibiotics, typically a combination of trimethoprim and sulfamethoxazole. Patients who suspect they may have contracted the illness are advised to contact their primary care physician for testing, which often requires a stool sample. Because symptoms of cyclosporiasis mimic other gastrointestinal issues like norovirus or bacterial infections, clinical testing is essential for an accurate diagnosis and proper treatment.

The Maryland Department of Health is collaborating with federal partners, including the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), to track the origin of the parasite. Similar seasonal upticks in Cyclospora have been reported in other regions of the United States as the weather warms and the consumption of fresh produce increases. Officials are reminding residents to remain vigilant regarding food recalls and to report any suspected foodborne illness to their local health department.

While the situation is currently under investigation, experts note that the majority of people recover fully with proper medical attention. The public is encouraged to stay informed through official state health department channels for updates on potential food source warnings or specific product recalls that may emerge as the investigation progresses. Maintaining awareness and practicing good hygiene are the most effective ways to mitigate risk during this period.

Consult a healthcare professional.