Health department encourages food safety amid increase in cyclosporiasis cases

HENDERSONVILLE, N.C. (July 16, 2026) – The Henderson County Department of Public Health encourages individuals to practice food safety as cyclosporiasis cases increase across North Carolina and the United States.

Cyclosporiasis is an intestinal illness caused by a microscopic parasite. People become infected by consuming food or water that contains the parasite. While not typically life threatening, the illness can lead to hospitalization for some individuals.

Seven cyclosporiasis cases have been reported in Henderson County since July 2. Henderson County typically sees two to three cases annually. At this time, no common link or source has been identified among the local cases. The Health Department continues to monitor the situation and will investigate any further reported cases.

North Carolina is among several states experiencing an increase in cyclosporiasis cases. Between May 1 and July 14, 2026, the state reported 307 cases and 13 hospitalizations. NCDHHS will maintain a statewide dashboard updated weekly with current case counts.

About Cyclosporiasis

Symptoms typically begin about one week after infection. Common symptoms include:

• Watery diarrhea
• Loss of appetite
• Weight loss
• Stomach cramping or pain
• Bloating
• Increased gas
• Nausea
• Fatigue

Some individuals may experience flu-like symptoms or have no symptoms at all. Cyclosporiasis can be treated with specific antibiotics.

“People with symptoms should consider a visit with their healthcare provider,” said Medical Director Dr. Diana Curran. “They may benefit from testing or treatment.”

Cyclospora is commonly associated with fresh herbs and produce consumed without cooking such as lettuce, cilantro, parsley, and certain fruits. Because the parasite (which is different from a bacteria) can survive the journey from the field to the consumer’s plate, even if properly cleaned, public health officials encourage cooking produce to significantly reduce the risk of illness.

Current Public Health Investigations

State and local partners continue to work to identify possible sources of exposure. Most cases in North Carolina have no common ingredient identified yet, and tracing can be challenging. Cyclospora contamination originates at the location where a produce item is grown and not from a local restaurant or food establishment.

Henderson County Public Health Communicable Disease nurses are working with local healthcare providers, environmental health specialists, and neighboring counties to monitor for cases and provide education.

Safety Guidance and Prevention Tips

The Henderson County Department of Public Health and the CDC recommend the following practices to reduce risk:

• Wash hands with soap and water before and after handling or preparing raw fruits and vegetables.
• Wash all fruits and vegetables thoroughly under running water before eating, cutting, or cooking.
• Wash produce even if it is labeled “prewashed.”
• Cook produce to significantly reduce the risk of illness.
• Scrub firm fruits and vegetables, such as melons and cucumbers, with a clean produce brush.
• Cut away any damaged or bruised areas before preparing produce.
• Refrigerate cut, peeled, or cooked fruits and vegetables within two hours.

More Information

For more information on Cyclosporiasis, visit the CDC website.