North Carolina Cyclosporiasis Cases Rise to 867 as Health Officials Continue Search for Source

NCDHHS launches public dashboard as foodborne illness outbreak grows; 33 people hospitalized since May.

 The number of reported cyclosporiasis cases in North Carolina has climbed to 867 since May 2026, with state health officials continuing to investigate the cause of a statewide increase in the intestinal illness.

The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS) announced on July 28 that it has launched a new Cyclosporiasis Cases and Outbreaks Dashboard to provide updated information as cases continue to be reported.

The latest dashboard update, posted Aug. 4, shows:

• 867 total cases reported since May 1, 2026

• 149 newly reported cases since the previous update on July 28

• 33 hospitalizations statewide

• 9 new hospitalizations reported since July 28

  
  

NCDHHS said investigators have not yet identified a confirmed source of contamination.

“While a source has not yet been identified, current data from patient interviews indicate that parsley and cilantro are commonly reported among cyclosporiasis cases,” the agency said. “However, many cases did not report eating either of these foods before getting sick, suggesting there could be multiple sources of exposure.”

Health officials said the investigation continues with local, state, and federal partners working to identify possible sources.

Wake County Reports Highest Number of Cases

The majority of cases have been reported in Wake County, which accounts for 494 infections, according to NCDHHS data.

Cases have been reported across age groups, with adults making up the largest share:

• Ages 5 and younger: 3 cases

• Ages 6-18: 12 cases

• Ages 19-54: 529 cases

• Ages 55 and older: 322 cases

• Age unknown: 1 case

  
  

NCDHHS noted that reporting delays may affect the most recent weeks of data because of delays in people seeking medical care, laboratory confirmation, and reporting to public health officials.

What Is Cyclosporiasis?

Cyclosporiasis is an intestinal illness caused by the parasite Cyclospora cayetanensis. People become infected by consuming food or water contaminated with the parasite.

Past outbreaks have been linked to fresh produce, including lettuce, fruit, and fresh herbs.

NCDHHS said the increase in North Carolina cases does not appear to be connected to a separate outbreak involving other states.

Health Officials Issue Food Safety Guidance

State health officials recommend taking precautions when preparing fresh foods.

Washing and rinsing fruits and vegetables may remove some contamination but does not guarantee that the parasite will be eliminated.

NCDHHS recommends:

• Cooking foods to 165 degrees Fahrenheit when possible

• Considering avoiding raw parsley and cilantro during the investigation

• Using locally grown produce when available

• Practicing safe food handling to reduce the risk of foodborne illness

Symptoms typically appear about one week after exposure and may include prolonged or severe diarrhea.

People experiencing persistent diarrhea or symptoms they believe may be cyclosporiasis are encouraged to contact a healthcare provider. The illness can be treated with antibiotics, and individuals should drink plenty of fluids or electrolyte beverages to prevent dehydration.

Cases Exceed Previous Annual Totals

NCDHHS said North Carolina has historically recorded about 150 cyclosporiasis cases per year over the past decade. Recent years have exceeded that average.

For comparison:

• 2026: 867 cases reported as of Aug. 4

• 2025: 306 cases

• 2024: 332 cases

• 2023: 151 cases

Health officials said the dashboard will be updated weekly on Tuesdays as additional information becomes available.