Maryland Cyclosporiasis Cases Surge Past 100

A nationwide cyclosporiasis outbreak continues to spread, with Maryland health officials now reporting more than 100 confirmed cases of the parasitic illness this year.

The Maryland Department of Health confirmed 110 cases statewide as of Wednesday. Of those, 106 were reported between May 1 and July 21.

The latest total marks a sharp increase from 69 cases reported last week and 32 cases the week before. Maryland’s case count has more than tripled in just three weeks.

Health officials said 27 of the cases were acquired within the United States, while 47 were linked to international travel. Another 36 cases remain under investigation.

Cyclosporiasis is an intestinal illness caused by the cyclospora parasite. Symptoms may include prolonged watery diarrhea, bloating, stomach cramps, fatigue, loss of appetite, weight loss and a low-grade fever.

Symptoms usually begin about one week after exposure and can continue for days or even weeks if left untreated. The delayed onset can make it difficult for investigators to identify where the infection originated.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration is investigating whether the outbreak is connected to iceberg lettuce supplied by Taylor Farms in Mexico. Taylor Farms voluntarily removed the affected lettuce, and Taco Bell pulled the product from its restaurants.

The FDA said a false-positive laboratory test identified during the investigation does not change the evidence supporting the voluntary recall or the agency’s ongoing investigation.

Cyclospora can spread when food or water becomes contaminated with feces. Health experts say contaminated irrigation water can expose fresh fruits and vegetables to the parasite.

Consumers are encouraged to thoroughly rinse produce before eating it. Heating produce to at least 158 degrees Fahrenheit can also destroy the parasite.

Cyclosporiasis cases typically increase during the summer months. Maryland recorded 128 cases during all of 2025 and 204 cases in 2024.

Nationwide, more than 1,600 illnesses have been reported across at least 34 states since the outbreak began in May. No deaths have been reported.

Anyone experiencing symptoms should contact a health care provider, especially if diarrhea lasts several days or returns after appearing to improve.