Health officials in Florida are reporting that cyclosporiasis cases have reached 500, marking a significant public health event as the national outbreak begins to slow. The parasitic infection, which causes severe gastrointestinal symptoms including explosive diarrhea and fatigue, has affected thousands across the United States. While the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) technically categorizes the U.S. cyclosporiasis season as ending on August 31, Florida’s climate allows fresh produce availability year-round, extending the risk period well into autumn.
Tracking the Outbreak in Central Florida
The Florida Department of Health reported an additional 24 cases in a September 3 update. This brings the total for 2026 to 500 probable and confirmed cases since outbreaks began in May, with 510 cases recorded since the start of the year. The national outbreak has sickened 18,445 people as of August 31, resulting in 990 hospitalizations and two deaths according to CDC data.
Local impact varies across the state. Miami-Dade County reported 61 cases since May 1, followed by Lee County with 42 and Bay County with 37. Orange County recorded 34 cases, while Hillsborough County had 19. These figures highlight that even as national rates decline, local communities in Central Florida continue to see new infections linked to contaminated food sources.
Why the Season Lingers
Cyclosporiasis is a parasitic infection transmitted through fecal matter contaminating fresh produce such as herbs, berries, and lettuce. Dr. Kami Kim of USF Health Morsani College of Medicine noted that cases typically surge during warmer months when consumption of fresh fruits and vegetables increases, more context in Florida Cyclosporiasis Cases Hit 450 as Infections Slow in Jacksonville.
Unlike the rest of the country, Florida’s season does not strictly end in late summer. Last year, while most cases occurred in summer, 33 were reported from September through December. This extended timeline means residents cannot simply wait out the risk period as they might have done historically, more context in Florida Cyclosporiasis Cases Hit 450 as Infections Slow in Jacksonville.
Safety Measures for Residents
Experts emphasize that rinsing produce is still a critical step despite the slowing outbreak rate. The CDC links this specific wave to contaminated lettuce from a Mexican producer and California distributor, but advises general vigilance, as reported by BBC.
To avoid infection, health officials recommend washing hands with soap before handling food, discarding outer layers of vegetables, and scrubbing firm produce with a clean brush under running water. Cooking produce to at least 158 degrees kills the parasite, which cannot survive high heat. Residents are also advised to refrigerate perishable foods promptly and avoid cross-contamination in kitchens.
