Cyclospora's Global Footprint & Outbreak History

Cyclospora cayetanensis, often overlooked, has a significant global presence, particularly in tropical regions, and has been responsible for numerous outbreaks linked to fresh produce worldwide.

The top 3

1. Top Sources of Cyclospora Outbreaks: Cyclospora outbreaks in the U.S. are frequently linked to imported fresh produce, including various leafy greens (e.g., shredded iceberg lettuce, mesclun lettuce, basil, cilantro), raspberries, and snow peas. Contaminated fresh produce is difficult to clean thoroughly and is consumed without processing.
2. Largest Documented Cyclospora Outbreaks: The 2026 U.S. Cyclospora outbreak linked to shredded iceberg lettuce from Taylor Farms de Mexico has affected 17 states with 9,481 cases and at least 398 hospitalizations, making it the largest known Cyclospora outbreak in the U.S. Another significant outbreak in 1996 linked to raspberries affected 1,465 cases in the U.S. and Canada.
3. Regions with Highest Endemic Cyclospora Rates: Cyclosporiasis is endemic and most common in tropical and subtropical regions worldwide, with high infection rates reported in countries like Nepal, Haiti, and Peru, often correlating with rainy seasons and poor sanitation. In the U.S., domestically acquired cases tend to increase during spring and summer months.

Sources

• Areas at Risk for Cyclosporiasis - CDC
• CDC Expands Largest Known Cyclosporiasis Outbreak to 15 States - The Packer
• CDC expands largest known cyclosporiasis outbreak to 15 states - The Washington Post
• Cyclospora - FDA
• Cyclospora Cayetanensis—Major Outbreaks from Ready to Eat Fresh Fruits and Vegetables
• Cyclospora cayetanensis: A Perspective (2020–2023) with Emphasis on Epidemiology and Detection Methods - MDPI

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